What's Happening?
A sepia photo circulating online, purportedly showing the Philadelphia Phillies' first mascots from 1883, has been debunked. The image, featuring three individuals in Halloween costumes, was mistakenly
attributed to the Phillies' early history. The photo actually originates from Ossian Brown's 2010 photobook 'Haunted Air,' which includes images of anonymous people in costumes from 1875 to 1955. The Phillies, established in 1883, did not have a costumed mascot until the Phillie Phanatic appeared post-1977. The claim of the 'Dancing Dutchman' and 'Chauncey' as mascots lacks evidence, and the earliest use of 'mascot' in English dates to 1881, linked to a French opera.
Why It's Important?
This clarification highlights the importance of verifying historical claims, especially those shared widely on social media. Misattributions can lead to misconceptions about cultural and sports history. The debunking of this claim prevents the spread of false narratives about the origins of sports mascots, emphasizing the need for accurate historical documentation. It also underscores the role of digital platforms in perpetuating misinformation, urging users to critically assess the authenticity of viral content.
