Tom Patterson

Thomas W. H. Patterson
formerly thought to be Dan Patterson

• Bats Unknown, Throws Left
• Height 5' 7½", Weight 143 lb.
• Debut May 18, 1871
• Final Game September 6, 1875
• Born 1845 in New York, NY USA
• Died May 31, 1900 in New York, NY USA

BR page

Biographical Information

Tom Patterson has long been confused with an earlier baseball player of the pre-modern era, Dan Patterson, whose career spanned from 1863 to 1866 (this explains why Tom's records are still often listed under Dan's name). Tom's career ran from 1866 to 1875, including four seasons in the National Association of Professional Base Ball Players, all for teams in the New York City area. A weak-hitting outfielder, his best season was for the 1871 New York Mutuals, for whom he hit .205 in 32 games. He also worked a total of 10 games as an umpire in the circuit, in 1872 and 1874.

Tom Patterson was a compositor (i.e. a printer's assistant) in civilian life while playing baseball. He lived for a time in Williamsburg, NY, where he was likely born - although his birth record has not yet been found.

Further Reading

• "Tom Patterson", in Bill Carle, ed.: Biographical Research Committee Report, SABR, September/October 2006, p. 1.

Related Sites

• BR minors page