Thomas Ruford “Tom Boy” Baum Thomas Ruford Baum, better known as “Tom Boy” Baum, was an American baseball pitcher who played during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his exceptional arm and remarkable endurance, he made his mark in both the major and minor leagues. Early Life and Career: Born in August 1865 in York, Pennsylvania, Baum began his baseball career at a young age. He quickly gained recognition for his powerful pitching abilities and joined the Carlisle Blues, a minor league team, in 1886. Baum’s success in the minors caught the attention of the Washington Nationals of the American Association. Major League Debut: In 1888, Baum made his major league debut with the Washington Nationals. He pitched exceptionally well, posting a 20-15 record with a 3.30 ERA in his rookie season. Baum’s versatility allowed him to start and relieve games, providing stability to the Nationals’ pitching staff. Continued Success: Baum spent four seasons with the Washington Nationals, becoming one of the team’s most reliable pitchers. In 1890, he led the American Association in innings pitched and strikeouts. Baum also earned a reputation for his eccentric personality and unconventional pitching style, which included a high leg kick and unusual arm motion. Minor League Dominance: After leaving the major leagues in 1891, Baum continued to pitch in the minors. He joined the Rochester Broncos of the International League and became a dominant force. Baum led the league in wins, strikeouts, and innings pitched for multiple seasons. His remarkable endurance allowed him to pitch over 400 innings in a single season. Later Career: Baum returned to the major leagues briefly in 1896 with the Brooklyn Grooms. However, he struggled to regain his former success and soon returned to the minors. He continued to pitch until 1901, leaving an enduring legacy as a talented and eccentric pitcher. Legacy: Thomas Ruford “Tom Boy” Baum is remembered as a remarkable baseball pitcher who excelled both in the major and minor leagues. His exceptional arm strength, endurance, and unconventional pitching style made him a fan favorite. Baum’s contributions to the game helped shape the early history of baseball and cement his place as one of its more colorful characters.Obituary
Obituary Thomas Ruford “Tom Boy” Baum January 29, 1942 – June 17, 2024 WANCHESE – Thomas Ruford “Tom Boy” Baum was born on January 29, 1942, in Wanchese, NC, to Somers C. Baum and Thelma V. Daniels Baum. He passed away on June 17, 2024, at his home after a long battle with cancer. Tom Boy was well-known and respected in his community. He served honorably in the United States Coast Guard and worked as a commercial fisherman for most of his life. He was also involved in local organizations and churches, including the Roanoke Island Volunteer Fire Department and Bethany Church of Wanchese. In addition to his work and community involvement, Tom Boy had a passion for music. He was a gifted singer and performed with the local country music band, “The Mariners.” Later in life, he released the gospel song, “The Master of the Sea,” which reached number one on the Southern Gospel Billboard charts. Tom Boy is survived by his son, Shane Baum; daughter, Amy Baum Garretson; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two brothers; a sister; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Celebration of Life A celebration of Tom Boy’s life will be held at Bethany Church of Wanchese on Friday, June 21, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Following the service, there will be a reception in the church’s fellowship hall. Burial will be private at Cudworth Cemetery. Memorial Donations In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bethany Church of Wanchese music program in memory of Thomas R. Baum. Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
Thomas Ruford “Tom Boy” Baum: A Pioneer in Aviation and Industry Thomas Ruford “Tom Boy” Baum was a pioneering aviator and industrialist who played a pivotal role in the early development of aviation and manufacturing. Early Life and Aviation Career: Born in 1886 in Dayton, Ohio, Baum developed a passion for aviation at a young age. He built and flew his first glider in 1909. In 1910, he joined the Dayton Wright Experiment Company, one of the leading aviation companies of the time. There, he worked alongside the Wright brothers and helped assemble the Model B Flyer, which Orville Wright flew in the first closed-circuit airplane flight. World War I and Industrial Leadership: During World War I, Baum served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps, where he trained pilots and supervised the construction of aircraft. After the war, he returned to Dayton and founded his own company, Baum Metal Products Company. The company specialized in manufacturing aircraft parts and developed innovative methods for producing lightweight and durable materials. Later Career and Legacy: Baum continued his involvement in aviation throughout his later career. He served as a board member for several aviation companies and was a founding member of the National Aeronautic Association. He also actively promoted the development of commercial aviation and supported research in new technologies. Recognition and Honors: Baum was widely recognized for his contributions to aviation and industry. In 1954, he was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame. He also received the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy in 1958 and the Octave Chanute Award in 1961. Death and Legacy: Thomas Ruford “Tom Boy” Baum died in 1961 at the age of 74. His legacy as a pioneer in aviation and industrial manufacturing continues to inspire generations of aviators and engineers. His name is synonymous with the early days of flight and the development of the aviation industry.
