Jimmie Foxx, Lefty Grove, McGowan & 9 More Signed "Max Bishop" Program BAS Auto

Title: 1936 Max Bishop Testimonial Dinner Program – Signed by 12 Including Hall of Famers Foxx, Grove & McGowan – Beckett LOA

Description:
Offered here is a historic multi-signed program from the January 30, 1936 Max Bishop Testimonial Dinner, held at the Southern Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland. This elegant vintage program, honoring the longtime Philadelphia Athletics second baseman and Pacific Coast League manager Max Bishop, features twelve autographs from prominent baseball figures of the era.

Signed in a mix of black ink and pencil, the front cover bears the names of several notable guests, with autographs positioned prominently around the printed event text. Key signatures include:

• Jimmie Foxx (Hall of Fame, 500 HR Club)

• Lefty Grove (Hall of Fame, 300-game winner)

• Bill McGowan (Hall of Fame umpire)

• Max Bishop (honoree and famed leadoff hitter)

• Bing Miller

• Ed Rommel

• Dick Porter

• Jack Ogden

• Tommy Thomas

• Joe Boley

• George Stallings

• Harry Dunn

The testimonial program itself features a printed menu, committee list, and roster of guests, including prominent civic leaders and baseball dignitaries. Inside, Jimmie Foxx is listed as the evening’s toastmaster, with speeches delivered by the Governor and Attorney General of Maryland, emphasizing the stature of the event.

Historical Context:
Max Bishop was a vital cog in Connie Mack’s Athletics dynasty of the late 1920s and early 1930s, known for his exceptional on-base skills. This 1936 testimonial was attended by many of his former teammates from the Athletics’ glory years, such as Foxx, Grove, Rommel, and Miller, all of whom played key roles in the club's multiple World Series appearances. The convergence of talent and friendship at this event captured the enduring legacy of that baseball era.

Authentication & Condition:
This program is accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from Beckett Authentication Services (Cert. #AE33400), confirming the authenticity of all 12 signatures. The program exhibits creases, light scuffing, and toning consistent with age and handling, but the autographs remain legible and well-preserved, offering strong historical and visual appeal.

Closing Appeal:
This is a rare, one-of-a-kind relic from the golden age of baseball—a 1936 gathering of legends in tribute to a beloved teammate. Featuring Hall of Fame autographs and authentic period charm, this multi-signed Max Bishop testimonial program stands as an extraordinary collectible for pre-war baseball historians, Philadelphia Athletics enthusiasts, and autograph collectors seeking a document brimming with character and legacy.