Smoky Joe Wood birthday celebration at the museum

On Friday, October 25 the Pike County Historical Society will host a birthday celebration in honor of baseball legend Smoky Joe Wood from 6 to 8 p.m. in The Foundation Room of the Columns Museum, at 608 Broad Street in Milford.

A local legend, “Smoky Joe” spent much time at his family farm in Shohola and enjoyed the sportsman’s life immensely, including plenty of hunting and fishing.

Smoky Joe is remembered for his 1912 season with the Red Sox. At only 22, he compiled a 34-5 record, leading the American League with an .872 percentage. He had a 1.91 earned run average that season, pitched 10 shutouts and during one stretch won a league-record 16 consecutive games. He went on to win three games in the World Series against the New York Giants.

Born Howard Ellsworth Wood on October 25, 1889, his major league career spanned 14 years. Of note is the fact that when he could no longer hurl that blazing fastball (hence the name Smoky Joe), due to an injury to his thumb, he made the transition to outfielder and put up impressive numbers. He played for the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians professionally and went on to be a coach at Yale University from 1924 to 1941.

During this year’s October 25 birthday celebration at the Columns Museum, guests are encouraged to wear their team colors and jerseys to add to the fun.

The event will include footage of Smoky Joe’s season as documented by Ken Burns in his series “Baseball,” followed by a “baseball darts” competition — complete with organ music and play by play! All are welcome to participate, and a trophy will be awarded to the winner. There will be hot dogs, beer, and popcorn available for purchase. Admission requires a $5 donation.

Proceeds will be used to create a permanent exhibit pertaining to Smoky Joe and baseball in Pike County. To reserve your spot or for more information, call 570-296-8126 or email pikemuse@ptd.net.