Archbishop Receives Rare Babe Ruth Photo from Family in South Carolina

Baltimore, MD — The legacy of legendary baseball player George Herman “Babe” Ruth continues to resonate in his hometown over a century after his rise to fame. In December, Archbishop William E. Lori received an unexpected gift — a photograph of Ruth during his time with the New York Yankees at St. Mary’s Industrial School in Southwest Baltimore.

The photo was discovered by Ginny Black of Mount Pleasant, S.C., among her late mother’s belongings. Black mailed the picture to Archbishop Lori, expressing her belief in its importance. “You may already have this image, but if not we thought it was important to get to you,” Black wrote.

Research by Alison Foley, archivist at St. Mary’s Seminary and University, revealed that the photo was published in Ruth’s widow Claire’s 1959 book “The Babe and I.” It captures Ruth alongside teammates Benny Bengough, Bob Meusel, Joe Dugan, Mike Gonzales, and Xavierian Brothers Paul, Gilbert, and Sebastian.

Archbishop Lori expressed gratitude upon receiving the photograph, stating, “I felt immediately honored that she wanted to share something with me that she had held onto for so many years.” He noted that the image is a valuable connection to Ruth’s roots and the role of the Catholic Church in his life.

Katie Dick, director of external affairs at the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum, explained that Ruth frequently visited St. Mary’s to show his teammates where he learned to play baseball. Mike Gibbons, the museum’s director emeritus, added that Ruth supported the school financially and often took the St. Mary’s band on his national tours.

Ruth was sent to St. Mary’s at age seven and spent 12 years there. He attributed much of his success to the mentorship and guidance he received from the Xaverian Brothers, particularly Brother Matthias.

After joining the Baltimore Orioles as a teenager, Ruth’s talent quickly gained attention. He was later sold to the Boston Red Sox and then to the New York Yankees, where he became one of baseball’s greatest hitters, leading the Yankees to four World Series titles.

Archbishop Lori highlighted the connection between Ruth’s life and the mission of the Church. “He spent much of his youth at St. Mary’s Industrial School for Boys, which was a Catholic institution,” he said. “We believe that Ruth’s experience there helped shape him into the man he became.”

Ruth’s commitment to giving back included regular donations to St. Mary’s and visits to support its students and facilities. Archbishop Lori emphasized the importance of these values, stating, “Babe Ruth’s story is tied directly to the struggles he faced, especially in his youth.”

The photograph serves as a reminder of Ruth’s Baltimore roots and his strong ties to the Catholic community that played a significant role in his upbringing.