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Report an IssueFirst Louisville Slugger Bat
2499
118 S. First Street, Louisville, KY
Site of J.F. Hillerich carpentry shop, 1875-1901. In 1884, J.f.'s son, J.A. "Bud" Hillerich, attended a Louisville Eclipse major league baseball game. After star player Pete Browning broke his bat, Hillerich offered to make a new one. Browning got three hits the next day and soon his teammates wanted to order Hillerich bats. Sponsored by Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory
Hillerich grew the bat business, trademarking "Louisville Slugger" in 1894. Name changed from J.F. Hillerich & Son to Hillerich & Bradsby Co. in 1916. They excelled at bat making and marketing, becoming a worldwide icon. H&B eventually moved to 8th and Main Streets with pro bat factory tours and a baseball museum.
Sponsored by Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory.
Dedicated May 10, 2017.