Welcome to the 9th Annual...
We are thrilled to welcome you to four incredible days of history, heritage, and hometown pride as we celebrate the legacy of mining and baseball in Globe-Miami. This year’s lineup is packed with mine tours, walking tours, Lunch & Learn lectures, new museum exhibits, and more!
But the real highlight? The final tournament play of the Arizona Territorial Base Ball League, as teams compete for the Capstone Copper Trophy in our First Annual Old Dominion Days Cup. This exciting weekend of classic baseball brings history to life on the field, connecting past and present through America’s favorite pastime.
Mining & Baseball – A Shared Legacy
Mining and baseball have gone hand in hand in this region since 1882, when the Old Dominion Mine sponsored its first team. In the years that followed, teams like the SmokeEaters (backed by the International Smelter Company) and the Miami Copper Miners (sponsored by Miami Copper) made baseball a staple of mining communities. These games weren’t just sport—they were a source of camaraderie, fierce competition, and deep local pride
This year, we honor that tradition with a heritage baseball exhibit at the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts, featuring rare photographs, stories, and memorabilia from the early days of territorial baseball. Don’t miss this chance to step back in time and relive the golden age of the game!
Explore, Learn & Experience More
Beyond the ballfield, we invite you to discover the history beneath your feet with our mine and history tours, including:
• Capstone Copper Mine – Get an up-close look at Globe-Miami’s largest open pit mining operation.
• Chrysotile Mine & Ash Creek Canyon with Off-Road Adventure – A rare chance to explore this legendary old mining site and take in the beauty of AshCreekCanyon.
• Walking Tours & Guided Hikes – From the hidden stairways of historic Globe to the scenic trails of Round Mountain Park.
For those who love deep-dive storytelling, our Lunch & Learn lectures and museum exhibits offer rare insights into mining history, safety innovations, and the lives of the miners who built this region. Highlights include:
• A Photographic Journey Through 100 Years of Hardrock Mining – Featuring stunning large-format images of abandoned underground mines and historic mining operations.
• Strong Communities: Partnerships – A conversation with industry leaders on the evolution of mining and community partnerships.
Join the Celebration!
Whether you’re here for the history, the action on the field, or the adventure, Old Dominion Days is about celebrating the legacy of this incredible region. So grab your tickets, explore, and enjoy the rich history and vibrant energy of Globe-Miami.
We’re honored to have you with us for this unforgettable weekend— let the games, the discoveries, and the memories begin!
Rules of the Game
Nineteenth century baseball was considerably different than today’s game.
Pitching must be underhanded.
A ball caught on one bounce is an out.
A foul tick caught on the fly or one bounce is an out.
Any ball caught on the fly or one bounce by players or spectators is an out
No tagging up on a fly ball; runners may advance on a one-bounce catch
A ball is fair or foul based on where it first hits the ground—it does not need to pass first or third base.
Foul balls are not strikes
No overrunning first base—runners can be tagged out if they do.
No leadoffs or stealing bases
Balls and strikes are not usually called—the hurler’s job is to pitch hittable balls; the defense must get the batter out
The umpire’s rule is LAW.
Only the team captain may address the umpire, who must be treated with respect.
Arguing, profanity, or ungentlemanly conduct results in a 25-cent fine.
The game is played for fun!
Enjoy the game and play with honor!
The History of Vintage Base Ball
– Nationally and in Arizona
Baseball has long been considered America’s pastime, but few know that the game has roots stretching back over 160 years, with rules, equipment, and traditions that evolved alongside the country itself. Today, vintage base ball (historically spelled as two words) aims to preserve and celebrate the sport as it was played in its earliest days.
The National Vintage Base Ball Movement
Modern vintage base ball began in 1979 at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Long Island, New York, followed by Ohio Village in 1981. Since then, the movement has spread across over 20 states, as well as Canada, with teams donning period-accurate uniforms, using historical equipment, and following 19thcentury base ball rules. Games are often played at open-air museums, living history sites, Civil War re-enactments, and city parks, providing a living glimpse into the origins of the sport
At any given time, nearly 400 clubs exist across North America, with the Vintage Base Ball Association (VBBA) working to grow the sport and ensure accuracy in historical gameplay. The VBBA’s mission is to preserve, perpetuate, and promote base ball as it was played in its formative years, offering vintage rules interpretations, historical guidance, and support to teams nationwide.
Vintage Base Ball in Arizona
Arizona has embraced vintage base ball with its own Arizona Territories Vintage Base Ball League (ATVBBA), which has been active for over 15 years. Teams across the state compete using the 1863 rule set, aligning with VBBA standards to honor the history of the game
Like many organizations, the Arizona league suffered a setback due to the COVID-19 pandemic, losing teams and players. However, in 2022, the league rebounded, and today, nine teams now compete in a season that runs from fall through late spring (ending in April)
Join the League!
The Arizona Territories Vintage Base Ball League is always looking for new players—whether you’re a history enthusiast, a ballplayer seeking a new challenge, or someone eager to experience the game the way it was meant to be played
If you’re interested in joining a team, visit arizonavintagebaseball.org and connect with a captain in your area.
The Story Behind the Copper Trophy
The copper trophy set to be awarded at the first annual Old Dominion Cup Tournament carries a history nearly as rich as the game itself. Dating back almost 80 years, this unique piece was originally the crowning glory of charity racing at Sportsman’s Park in Chicago.
Once presented to the winning jockey of the Chicago Tribune Charities, Inc. Handicap, the trophy was awarded by Charles W. Bidwill, president of the National Jockey Club. Over time, it found its way into the hands of an antique dealer—missing the horse that once stood atop the piece. In a fitting twist of fate, the dealer replaced it with a baseball player, perfectly aligning the trophy with its new purpose in Globe’s historic tournament.
Now, this storied trophy has been adopted as the symbol of the Old Dominion Cup, thanks to Capstone Copper, the tournament’s signature sponsor. It will serve as a traveling trophy, passed from winner to winner each year and proudly displayed by the reigning champions.
Much like the miners and ballplayers of Globe’s past, this trophy represents endurance, tradition, and the spirit of competition—a perfect fit for the Old Dominion Cup.
Nov. 10, 1946 Chicago Tribune
Schedule
TICKETS Available for individual events or as a package. For full schedules & tickets: OldDominionDays.eventbrite.com.
april 24-27, 2025
THURSDAY, APRIL 24
Lectures & Presentations at Bullion Plaza Museum
LOCATION
Various venues across Globe & Miami
9:00 – 10:30 AM | An Armchair Tour of Ash Creek Canyon & Chrysotile Mine – Slideshow & talk by AzOffRoadTours (Includes coffee & donuts) | $15 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Lunchtime Legacy Panel: Mining Then & Now – Industry leaders discuss mining’s evolving role (Includes lunch) | $25
TOURS – Various Locations
7:00 AM | Stairizona Walking Tour (Meet at Vida e Caffe, 153 Broad St.) | $30
1:30 PM | Exclusive Copper Rod Plant Tour (Meet at Bullion Plaza Museum) | $25
2:30 PM | Exclusive Copper Rod Plant Tour (Meet at Bullion Plaza Museum) | $25
1:00 – 4:00 PM | Chrysotile Mine & Ash Creek Canyon Off-Road Tour (Meet at Hwy 77 and mile marker 183) | $150
FRIDAY, APRIL 25
Lectures & Presentations
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | A Photographic Journey: 100 Years of Hardrock Mining Rare – Special Collection of historic hardrock mining images hosted by Jay Spehar, Sheldon Miller & Linda Gross (Includes lunch) | $25 Gila Historical Museum – Lecture & Hamburger Fry
5:00 – 6:00 PM | The History of Old Dominion Mine – Talk by Zach Larsen (BHP) on the rise and reclamation of Globe’s most productive mine (Includes entry to Hamburger Fry or lecture-only ticket) | $20 (w/ meal) or $10
6:00 – 8:00 PM – Museum Hamburger Fry under the stars | $10
Tours – Various Locations
7:00 AM | Stairizona Walking Tour (Meet at Vida e Caffe, 153 Broad St.) | $30
1:00 – 4:00 PM | Chrysotile Mine & Ash Creek Canyon Off-Road Tour (Meet at Hwy 77 and mile marker 183) | $150
9:30 – 11:30 AM | Capstone Copper Mine Tour (Meet at Bullion Plaza Museum) | $25
Saturday Baseball – Old Dominion Cup Tournament
Historic Ballfield: Central Field in Globe PLAY BALL! $20 Gate Fee covers both Saturday & Sunday Portion of all proceeds go to support Globe Baseball & Central Field 8:00 AM | Gates Open - Vendor Booths Set Up - Teams Arrive. 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Tournament Play Begins
Teams: Higley Haymakers, Tucson Saguaros, Tempe Millerettes, Phoenix Senators, Maricopa Maidens, Bisbee Black Sox, Globe Bears (w/ Buckeye Bombers) Opening Ceremony: National Anthem & First Pitch by our very own Rose Mofford
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
Special Lectures & Presentations at Cobre Valley Center for the Arts
5:30 - 6:30 PM | Reception and Opening of Baseball Heritage Exhibit (CVCA) | $20 (includes lecture)
6:30 – 8:00 PM | Territorial Baseball in Arizona – Talk, slideshow, & book signing by author John Tenney | $20 Tours – Various Locations
7:00 AM | Guided Hike: Round Mountain Park (Meet at Round Mountain Park – Dogs on leashes welcome) | $20 (Free w/ ALL PASS)
7:00 AM | Stairizona Walking Tour (Meet at Center for the Arts, 101 Broad St.) | $30 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Capstone Copper Mine Tour (Meet at Bullion Plaza Museum) | $25
1:00 – 4:00 PM | Chrysotile Mine & Ash Creek Canyon Off-Road Tour (Meet at Hwy 77 and mile marker 183) | $150
Sunday Baseball – Old Dominion Cup Tournament
Historic Ballfield: Central Field in Globe PLAY BALL! 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Tournament Play Continues
SUNDAY, APRIL 27
Tours – Various Locations
7:00 AM | Guided Hike: Old Dominion Historic Mine Park (Meet at Old Dominion Mine Park) | $20
7:00 AM | Stairizona Walking Tour (Meet at Center for the Arts, 101 Broad St.) | $30
1:00 – 4:00 PM | Chrysotile Mine & Ash Creek Canyon Off-Road Tour (Meet at Hwy 77 and mile marker 183) | $150
Baseball – Old Dominion Cup Tournament Ceremony
Historic Ballfield: Central Field in Globe 1:00 PM | Awards Ceremony – Old Dominion Cup Champion Crowned!
Don’t miss this exciting lineup of tours, talks, and baseball games celebrating Globe’s rich history, mining heritage, and classic ballgame tradition! Get your tickets now and be part of this unforgettable weekend!
Lecture Highlights
Territorial Baseball in Arizona 1863-1912
Meet: Cobre Valley Center for the Arts Cost: $20 | Time: Saturday 6:30–8 PM
Author John Tenney brings Arizona’s early baseball history to life—from cavalry rivalries to mining town teams. Includes a slideshow, talk, and book signing after the Baseball Heritage exhibit and reception.
An Armchair Tour of Ash Creek Canyon & Chrysotile Mine
Meet: Bullion Plaza Museum | Cost: $15
Time: Thursday 9–10:30 AM (Includes coffee & donuts)
Can’t make the off-road tour? Join owner, Andy Coburn of AzOffRoadTours for a captivating slideshow and talk on the history and beauty of the Ash Creek Canyon area and the old Chrysotile mine.
Lunchtime Legacy: A Photographic Journey: 100 Years of Hardrock Mining
Meet: Bullion Plaza Museum (2nd Floor) | Cost: $25 (Includes lunch)
Time: Fri: 11:30 AM–1 PM
A Special Collection of images spanning a century of hardrock mining, showing the men, the mines, the groundwork and the grit of hardrock mining here and around the West. Featuring archives from local museums and others. Moderated by mining historian Jay Spehar and Sheldon Miller, former Globe Museum Director, and event host Linda Gross. Guaranteed to leave you spellbound on the sheer audacity of those who pursued hardrock mining at the turn of the century.
Lunchtime Legacy: Stronger Futures: Mining, Communities, and the Power of Partnership
Meet: Bullion Plaza Museum (2nd Floor) | Cost: $25 (Includes lunch) Time: Friday 11 AM–1 PM
Moderated by Superior’s Mayor, Mila Besich, the panel includes key management with Freeport-McMoRan, Capstone Copper, BHP and Resolution Copper in discussing mining’s evolving role in community partnerships, sustainability, and economic growth.
The History of Old Dominion Mine –Talk by Zach Taylor (BHP)
Meet: Gila Historical Museum | Cost: $20 (Includes Hamburger Fry) or $10 (Lecture only) | Time: Fri: 5–6 PM Learn about
Tour Highlights
Capstone Copper Mine Tour
Meet: Bullion Plaza Museum | Cost: $25 | Times: Fri 9:30–11:30 AM | Sat 11 AM–1 PM
Travel to Globe-Miami’s largest open-pit mine! Enjoy a guided bus tour featuring mining lore, live operations, and an up-close look at one of Arizona’s most active copper mines.
Stairizona Tour: Walking Tour Globe’s Hidden History
Meet: Vida e Caffe 153 S. Broad St. | Cost: $30
Time: Thursday-Sunday, daily at 7 AM
Step through time on this unique walking tour of Globe’s historic staircases! Explore murals, hidden pathways, and rich mining-town history while taking in panoramic views.
Forgotten by Time: Chrysotile Mine & Ash Creek Canyon
Meet: Hwy 60 & Turnoff 256 | Cost: $150
Time: 1–4 PM Daily
Meet at Hwy 77 and mile marker 183
Step back in time with an exclusive off-road tour to the historic Chrysotile Mine! Explore mining ruins, witness restoration efforts, and discover artifacts amid the stunning Ash Creek Canyon Preserve.
Exclusive Copper Rod Plant Tour
Meet: Bullion Plaza Museum | Cost: $25
Time: Thursday 1:30 & 2:30 PM
Get an inside look at Miami’s Rod Plant! See firsthand how copper is melted, cast, and rolled into the essential rods powering modern industry in this behind-the-scenes tour.
Old Dominion Mine Park: Guided Walking
Tour
Meet: Old Dominion Mine Park | Cost: $20 | Time: Sat 7 AM
Discover Globe’s mining legacy on a one-hour guided walk through Old Dominion Mine Park! Explore historic structures, interpretive trails, and learn about the region’s mining history.
Territorial Baseball Tournament
Dates: April 26-27 | Location: Central Field in Globe Step back in time and experience baseball the way it was played in the early days of Arizona! The Old Dominion Cup brings together some of the finest teams in Territorial Baseball, blending history, competition, and classic charm.
Opening Ceremony: National Anthem & First Pitch by our very own Rose Mofford Tournament Play: Saturday 9 AM – 1 PM | Awards Ceremony: Sunday 1 PM
Meet the Teams
Tucson Saguaros
One of the original teams in the Vintage League, they feature players ranging from their 20s to an inspiring 81-year-old veteran! Named after the historic Tucson Saguaros, they bring deep roots and serious skill.
Phoenix Senators
A true staple of Arizona baseball history, this team traces its name to the Phoenix Senators (1915-1957). One of the league’s original teams, they embody the spirit of classic baseball.
Maricopa Maidens
This all-women’s team plays in vintage 1940s uniforms, honoring the pioneers of women’s baseball. The team has rapidly grown into a powerhouse, channeling the legacy of Arizona legend Rose Mofford
Globe Bears
Representing the hometown!
Sporting Globe’s traditional colors, the Bears are the newest team in the league and are still building their roster. This year, they’ll be teaming up with members of the Buckeye Bombers to round out the competition and make their mark on the tournament.
Higley Haymakers
The team to beat! Two-time Arizona State Champs, these seasoned players (ages 20s-50s) have dominated Territorial Baseball since their 2023 debut. Their roster even includes a family trio—two brothers and their cousin!
Tempe Millerettes
Inspired by the 1940s Minneapolis Millerettes, this newest team in the league is as fierce as they are fun! With an age range of 15 to 75, they bring a mix of talent and passion to the diamond.
Mesa Miners
Mesa Miners are a rough and tough group of gentlemen. A hard-hitting team who live up to their team name. Well versed on the vintage base ball play.
Bisbee Black Sox
One of the earliest Territorial Teams, the Black Sox are known for their sharp uniforms and big roster (ages 20s-50s). Expect powerhouse plays and a deep love for the game!
Mining and Baseball Heritage
Excerpt from Territorial Baseball in Arizona by John Tenney
Old Dominion Mining Company played loose pick-up games against the boys in town in 1892. Before then, Globe’s main source of competition was the soldiers from Camp San Carlos, 22 miles east of town…
The earliest known baseball games played in Globe by a company-sponsored nine was in late July 1892. The Silver Belt printed a notice in the paper on July 23 noting the Old Dominion Copper Company had taken the name of “The Walkers.” The name may have reflected some aspect of their profession, or was given to them by the newspaper or collectively by the citizens of Globe.”
“...The development of the railroad in Globe was very important. The rail line ushered in a new era of production, allowing the company to efficiently ship out what was being produced in the mine. The new mode of transportation also allowed people to travel farther than they had thought possible, and in a shorter amount of time. By 1903, excursions to baseball games were a popular thing for local cranks in Globe, traveling as far as Cananea, Mexico, to see the hometown nine compete. Globe would hold a keen interest in baseball, fielding two town nines in addition to the clubs representing the mining companies. …”
(Catch Tenney’s full presentation on Saturday, April 26th at the Cener for the Arts)
Smoke Eaters Baseball Team
Miami, Arizona 1923 ~ Written by Frank
Tippett
In 1923, L. O. Howard was General Manager of the International Smelting & Refining Co. where I worked. I was quite a baseball player and had organized a team known as the Smoke Eaters for the smelter. I wanted to get some financial help from the Company, since I had previously worked in the rubber factories in Akron, Ohio, where the factories sponsored all forms of athletics, including baseball, basketball, and boxing. I suggested this to Henry Allen, Chief Clerk at the smelter, and Ben Franklin, Chief Timekeeper. They advised me that L. O. Howard hated baseball players since he had previously employed them and they were all “goldbrickers.” I allowed as to how I had been fired from better jobs than the one I had and was going to tackle the lion in his den.
I got an appointment with Mr. Howard and in conversing with him for about an hour, I sold him on the idea that he would have more contented employees by sponsoring our baseball team to which he agreed, and I left his office with a blank check to purchase uniforms, bats, balls, catchers’ equipment, umpires’ equipment, and all the necessary incidentals. Mr. Allen and Mr. Franklin were very pleasantly surprised, and Mr. Howard became an avid baseball fan and parked his Cadillac in the third base area at all of our games. We won three Twilight League pennants and presented Mr. Howard with the trophies on the mantle in his office.
In 1923 we had a baseball game starting at 5:00 p.m. at old Association Park in Lower Miami. I was working afternoon shift at the smelter and left the job long enough to play in this game. I had on a sweat shirt, work khakis, and, of course, baseball shoes. I was playing third base, and the batter hit a hot ground ball to me; it took a bad hop and hit me on the right trouser pocket. I had a pocket full of wooden matches which were ignited and I undressed from the waist down to the tremendous applause of the fans, burned a spot on my leg, but I got the fire put out and continued play.
Thank You to Everyone for making the magic happen!
Bullion Plaza Museum and Cultural Center, housed in a historic 1923 school building in Miami, was designed by the famous architectural firm of Trost & Trost. Once an elementary school for Mexican-American children, it now showcases exhibits on local history, mining, and Native American culture and monthly talks on aspects of local history. The Museum serves as a vibrant community hub and meeting facility, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024. During Old Dominion Days they will host the Lunch & Learn series and an exhibit of photographs from 100 years of hardrock mining.
Located: 150 N. Plaza Circle, Miami.
Hours: 10 am-2 pm Wed-Fri ,10 am- 4 pm Sat & Sun
Cobre Valley Center for the Arts
The Arts Center, housed in the historic 1906 Gila County Courthouse in Globe, Arizona, preserves the region’s artistic and cultural heritage. Once a center of justice, it now showcases local and regional art, music and theater. The main gallery will host an exhibit of the region’s baseball heritage through rare historical photographs, local stories and historical research, followed by a slideshow and presentation by author John Tenney, who wrote the book, Baseball in Territorial Arizona 1863 -1912.
Located: 101 N. Broad Street, Globe Hours: 10 am-4 pm Tues - Sat, Noon-4 pm Sun. & Mon
Gila Historical Museum
The Gila County Historical Museum was founded in 1955 in order to study, collect, preserve and disseminate the history of Gila County. Housed in the former Old Dominion Mine Rescue Station across from the Old Dominion Mine, it features a large archive of photographs, documents, maps and exhibits of mining, ranching, and business and families in the area dating back to the late 1800s. Offering research assistance and insights, the museum has been a destination for families, book authors and researchers focused on Globe, Miami and Gila County.
Located: 1330 N. Broad Street, Globe Hours: 10 am-2 pm Tuesday-Saturday.
Globe’s Central Field
Central Field was home to the Globe Bears, a class D minor league team from 1929-1931. The earliest documented game was played on the 4th of July, 1891. The corner field and grandstands were also used for baseball and football, wrestling and rodeos. Today, the south facing grandstand is now used for conditioning drills. Locker rooms stand on the old home plate. In 2008 they fenced off “Coffin Corner,” bringing the boundary in 30 feet closer.
Early day photo of the field known as Schoolhouse Field. Circa 1896
GOLD SPONSOR
BRONZE SPONSOR SILVER SPONSOR
The D-Backs have their signature dogs and we will have ours. Let the tradition begin!
Step up to the plate and fuel your game-day excitement with BravoAmericano’s special Old Dominion Cup menu! We’re serving up our own brand of Brats and Dogs when the Territorial League comes to town!
Check out the *Capstone Copper Classic, the DominionDogSlugger or our special, The Wes Dog – A Grand Slam Classic. A double-smoked brat (because Wes always went the extra mile), grilled onions, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce—a bold, flavorful tribute to a man who took pride in everything he built, especially on the field.
PLUS: NEW! Territorial Pizza – Inspired by Arizona’s rich history, this special-edition pizza is a bold, flavorful tribute to the flavors of the Southwest—perfect for sharing with your team!
Whether you’re celebrating a big win, soaking in the tournament atmosphere, or just craving a great meal, BravoAmericano has you covered—and we’re delivering straight to the ballpark! Enjoy your favorite flavors without missing a minute of the action.
Official Sponsor of the Old Dominion Cup Tournament
Your official host for overnight stays during Old Dominion Days! Offering 10% discount off your rate by just mentioning ODD. 1565 E. South Street, Globe, AZ 85501 • (928) 425-7575 • www.copperhillsinn.com
Bullion Plaza Museum and Cultural Center