The Detroit Wolverines of the National League, 1882
(Differences in color are difficult to discern in this black-and-white photograph, however
the players shown above are indeed wearing different-colored and patterned uniforms)

The rules of 1882 called for the use of multi-colored uniforms denoting each player�s position. For example, scarlet-and-white-striped shirts and caps were worn by first basemen, while shortstops wore solid maroon. Only the color of the stockings was used to differentiate one club from another. Derisively called �clown costumes,� the experimental outfits were dropped in mid-season, though a few clubs briefly revived the position-oriented design in 1888.

Return to Timeline: 1849-1900

Dressed to the Nines: A History of the Baseball Uniform
Introduction � Parts of the Uniform � Timeline
Uniform Database � Activities � Credits
Online Exhibits � National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

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