Gold Belt Cities Base Ball Club

2026 marks the 250^th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Coincidentally, this year also commemorates the 150^th anniversary (or sesquicentennial) of the founding of the communities of Deadwood and Lead. To honor this occasion, both communities have partnered on planning a series of projects and events throughout the year.

The idea of hosting a vintage base ball game began in 2013 with the research and development of four outdoor interpretive panels located at Keene Memorial Baseball Field in Deadwood. At the beginning of the project, little was known about the northern Black Hills rich baseball heritage. Over the ensuing years, additional research led the City Archives staff to develop a traveling exhibit and a companion publication. All through this time, staff occasionally joked about establishing a public exposition on how early baseball was once played in the mining camps. Ironically, it took a sesquicentennial celebration to bring this to fruition.

As part of this unique project, it was discussed and agreed upon to bring back the friendly rivalry between the communities of Deadwood and Lead. It was also agreed upon that both communities incorporate as one entity, under the name, Gold Belt Cities Base Ball Club (GBCBBC). This historic term, “Gold Belt Cities”, has significance as it relates to the geographical area that connects the communities of Deadwood, Lead, Central City and other smaller mining camps together. The players that make up this organization are represented by the Mayors of Deadwood and Lead and the Central City Town Board President. The remaining team players are all members of the various northern Black Hills communities. We certainly hope that you enjoy this stroll down memory lane.

For a complete list of rules, please click on the below .PDF