If you embrace history and you adore baseball, ‘Pug,’ ‘Fireball,’ and Company: 116 Years of Professional Baseball in Des Moines, Iowa is a must-read. Steve Dunn has accomplished what few authors have. He has written a comprehensive, in-depth history of Des Moines, Iowa, baseball from its infancy in 1887 to its current team, the Iowa Cubs.
The book explores the professional baseball clubs that have played at various locations throughout the city. In addition, Des Moines baseball has hosted many recognizable historic players throughout its 116 years. Bob Feller, Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Satchel Paige are just a few of the names that might surprise the reader. However, the true strength of Steve’s book is the unrecognizable names mentioned throughout. Those key players, with their determination and dedication to the sport, provided the true backbone that is Des Moines baseball today. The book recounts many anecdotes and interesting side stories that compel the reader to want more.
As a contributor to the book, I enjoyed learning about how Des Moines embraced baseball in the late 1800’s, survived the ups and downs and turmoil of blue laws, wars, and “politics,” and persevered and grew into the much-loved sport, and its dedicated fan base that we know today.
Steve’s love for baseball is evident, his research is meticulous, and his approach is whimsical. Enjoy your time with this fun, nostalgic read of Des Moines baseball. It’s worth it.
Meet me at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines on Wednesday, May 27, for a baseball extravaganza. Iowa baseball historian and collector John Liepa will display many of his prized items of baseball memorabilia at the historic home of Hoyt Sherman, one of the prominent Des Moines citizens of the 19th century. I and seven other baseball authors will also have our books for sale. The Gallery will be open from noon to 5 for viewing. A program will be held in the 1,252-seat auditorium at 7 p.m. The historic mansion was built my Major Hoyt Sherman in 1877. The estate was gifted to the city of Des Moines and opened as a public space in 1907. Hoyt Sherman Place serves as home of the Des Moines Women's Club art collection. A parking lot is available next to the facility, along with street parking. See you on March 27!
I'll talk about the history of professional baseball in Des Moines and sign copies of my latest book at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 20, at the Lied Public Library in Clarinda, Iowa. I was born in Clarinda and my parents were born and raised in the Page County seat. My grandparents also lived in Clarinda for several years. My paternal grandfather, W.G. Dunn, was a prominent businessman who designed and manufactured parts for cars, produced wind chargers that were sold worldwide and manufactured training rifles for the Army and Navy that were used during World War II. My maternal grandfather, Dr. E.W. Freeland, was a dentist on the Clarinda square from 1914 to 1961. I look forward to discussing baseball history with librarian Andrew Hoppman and southwest Iowans that night.