Turn of the Century Flat Top Catcher’s Mitt by Tryon – RARE

Presented here is an exceptionally rare and visually striking Turn of the Century Flat Top Catcher’s Mitt, produced by the venerable Edward K. Tryon Sporting Goods Company of Philadelphia. This early 1900s piece stands as a remarkable example of 19th-century, early 20^th century, glove design—crafted in an era when baseball equipment was still in its formative stages.

This early mitt features a distinctive flat-top profile so closely associated with the deadball era, prior to the evolution of the more contoured and padded designs of the later 20th century. Constructed from soft and supple, high-quality leather, the glove shows strong signs of hand-stitched craftsmanship, with amazingly supple material that speaks to both its authenticity and its exceptional preservation.

Clearly stamped on the reverse is a cloth patch that reads, “E. K. Tryon – Philadelphia” manufacturer’s mark, a rare and highly desirable detail that further underscores its historical significance. Tryon was one of the earliest American sporting goods companies, and their equipment was used widely in both amateur and professional circles at the dawn of modern baseball.

Surviving examples of Tryon-brand catcher’s mitts from this era are few and far between, making this an especially coveted piece among advanced glove and early baseball equipment collectors. A true relic from baseball’s earliest days, this museum-worthy mitt would make a standout addition to any premier vintage collection. Please call directly with any questions or concerns.