Details:
**Special Evening Program: When the Work or Fight Order Brought 'The Babe,' 'Shoeless Joe,' and 'The Rajah' to Play in Reading**
Join us on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 6:00 PM for a captivating program exploring the historic baseball game held on September 29, 1918, at Lauers Park, attended by over 10,000 fans—the largest crowd in Reading's baseball history. Witness legendary players including Babe Ruth, Shoeless Joe Jackson, and Rogers "The Rajah" Hornsby compete in a thrilling 10-inning match, which was a direct result of the U.S. War Department's "Work or Fight" Order during World War I. This initiative compelled many baseball players to take on roles in defense-related industries, including playing for company-sponsored teams like the Reading Steel Castings "Steelies" and Harlan Shipbuilding Company "Harlans." Historian Brian Engelhardt will provide insights into the game's significance and its impact on the local community and baseball scene. The event, held at the Berks History Center, is available for $5 for BHC Members and $10 for Non-Members. Off-street parking is available. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual program will also be offered via Zoom, allowing participants to join from home. A registration link will be sent via email prior to the event. For more details and to register, please visit: berkshistory.app.neoncrm.com/.../neonev.../events...
