Tyler County can boast a colorful history. To help bring that history to light, the Tyler County Planning Commission, with the cooperation of the Tyler Star News, will publish a feature article or vintage photograph in each Star News issue throughout the coming Tyler County 2014 Bicentennial year.

As a preview of features to come, this photo, taken at the turn of the last century, shows Sistersville’s baseball team preparing to face the Pittsburgh Pirates in an exhibition game at Paden Park. Note the city band in the stands in the background.

Baseball was an important part of the county’s entertainment during the decades from the 1890’s through the 1920’s, with teams being fielded by county communities and organizations.

A county historic fact quiz: The Pittsburgh Pirates’ franchise record for career victories and complete games pitched is still held by a Tyler County native. He also set National League pitching records, one of which still stands today. Who is he?

Follow the Tyler Star News weekly and learn the identity of this son of Tyler County, along with more fascinating Tyler County history, during the coming year.