McGreevy's Bar, originally opened in 1894 as the Third Base Saloon, was known as Boston’s first sports bar. It housed one of the most extensive collections of baseball history of its time with photos, clippings and various baseball memorabilia. Michael T. McGreevy’s nickname, “Nuf Said,” was given to him because that was what he usually shouted to end barroom disputes, usually about the Boston Americans and the Boston Braves. The saloon soon became the hip place to be, with many celebrities, ball players and politicians being seen at the establishment. It was named the Third Base Saloon because, like third base, it was the last stop before home. Following Prohibition, the bar closed, and most of the contents were donated to the Boston Public Library. In 2008, the bar was re-opened and replicated to what it looked like in the early 20th century. The owners received permission from the Boston Public Library to photocopy many items in the archives. In part due to Covid 19, the establishment shut down for good. On Wednesday, Jan. 26, Bodnar’s Auction will be offering the contents of the bar in an online-only sale.
Several highlights of the sale include about a dozen or so items that are original to the early 1900s era of McGreevy’s Bar, including the first lot to be sold, an original portrait on glass with painted highlights of Third Base Saloon Founder Michael T. McGreevy that hung above the back bar from 1903-20. The estimate will be $15,000-$25,000. Another item is a 1903 Boston Baseball program/scorecard. On the front cover is a photo of Hall of Famer Jimmy Collins and McGreevy advertising his saloon, estimated at $2,000-$4,000. A cabinet photo, ca. 1903, of Hall of Famer Jimmy Collins, on the back stating in pencil, "Post, run cover, J Collins, photo by Horner.” It will be estimated at $800-$1,200.
An original 1903 World Series display of three items that hung in the original saloon includes, in the middle, a large cabinet photo of Royal Rooters at Hunting Grounds, on the left is a collage of the Boston American team players made from original photos and on the right is an original cartoon caricature drawing from artist Wallace Goldsmith, who was a member of the Royal Rooters. There is only one other original 1903 World Series cabinet photo known of this photo, which is at the library. The photo is titled "The Rooters on the field at the Huntington Grounds, 1903 World Series" and will be estimated at $3,000-$5,000.
The online-only auction currently has pre-bidding with all lots starting at $10. The live sale will begin at 11 a.m. EST on Wednesday, Jan. 26. It will be held on several platforms, including Liveauctioneers, Invaluable, Auction Zip and on a platform from Bodnar’s website. Joe Bodnar will offer shipping options through local shippers.
Bodnar’s Auction is based in Monmouth Junction, N.J.
To learn more, call toll free 866-349-7378 or email Joe Bodnar at joebodnar@bodnarsauction.com.