Cornelius McGillicuddy aka Connie Mack (1862-1956)

Autograph in ink signed “To Alvin J. Gibbs, An ardent baseball fan and a man whom I admire greately. Connie Mack” on reverse of frontispiece of book titled “CONNIE MACK-GRAND OLD MAN OF BASEBALL”, by Frederick G. Lieb published by G.P. Putnam & Sons, New York: 1945. First edition, publisher's blue cloth lettered in white. Accompanied by an autographed letter signed (ALS) on American Baseball Club of Philadelphia dated St. Petersburg, Florida, January 19th, 1948 to Mr. Alvin Gibbs. Letter reads “Dear Mr. Gibbs, Want to congratulate you on being eighty-one on January 28th 1949 and sincerely hope that you will live to see one hundred or more. I was eighty-six on December 23d so I have something over five years on you am not sure you can catch me as my health is very good at this time. Am at present time enjoying the splendid weather we are now having here in Florida. Am not thinking of retiring at this time. Have great thoughts of the future for base ball would naturaly like to give Philadelphia one more great base ball club I feel that our loyal patrons deserve this. With best wishes for a long and happy life to you. Sincerely Yours, Connie Mack”.

Book is octavo in size and exhibits some small scuffs to covers. Letter exhibits some folds and presents a strong signature. Provenance: Gibbs family collection, Philadelphia,

Cornelius McGillicuddy, better known as Connie Mack, was an American professional baseball catcher, manager, and team owner. Mack holds records for the most wins, losses, ties, and games managed in Major League Baseball history. His victory total is 847 more than the second-highest: Tony La Russa's 2,884 wins. Wikipedia

Born: December 22, 1862, East Brookfield, MA

Died: February 8, 1956 (age 93 years), Philadelphia, PA

Place of burial: Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, PA

Children: Earle Mack, Roy Mack

Spouse: Catherine Holahan (m. 1910–1956), Margaret Hogan (m. 1887–1892)

Hall of fame induction: 1937

Parents: Michael McGillicuddy, Mary McKillop