Report: Philadelphia A’s Historical Society will sell inventory

From Sports Collectors Daily on April 23, 2013:

The long-running Philadelphia A’s Historical Society is closing its facility in Hatboro, PA this Saturday [April 27] and has made plans to sell off its inventory of autographed memorabilia, publications and other items.

Financial difficulties are to blame, according to Ernie Montella, the non-profit group’s executive director. The Society relied upon sales of items associated with the A’s to stay in business. Its membership grew in the 1980s and 90s but over the last 15 years or so, dozens of Connie Mack’s former players have passed away and fans who watched the club play decades ago have either died or are growing much older.

“We’re done selling,” said Montella, who was a friend to many of the former players, helping organize area autograph signings and card show appearances.

The museum will remain in operation, with displays and loaned items moving to Spike’s Trophies on Grant Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia.

The Society will be offering clearance pricing on the store’s remaining inventory followed by a live auction on Saturday, May 18 to help pay off debts.

The A’s played in Philadelphia from 1901-1954 when they moved to Kansas City.

Hatboro Patch has more on the facility’s closure and what will happen to the store’s stock.

Read the full article here: http://www.sportscollectorsdaily.com/philadelphia-as-historical-society-closing-shop-will-sell-store-inventory/



Originally published: April 24, 2013. Last Updated: April 24, 2013.