1866: The first organized team of women players is formed when Vassar College, then an all-women’s school, starts its first baseball team. The Vassar Resolutes’ uniform will consist of ankle-length dresses made of wool. (Women of this era are expected to wear dresses at all times, even if they are participating in physical exercise.) The team will be forced to disband in 1878 because of parents’ concerns over the safety of baseball for their daughters.
1898: Lizzie Arlington became what is believed to be the first woman to play on a men’s professional team, appearing for the Philadelphia Reserves, as well as the minor league Reading Coal Heavers, where she pitched one inning with two hits, one walk, and no runs. After not being allowed to appear in another game with Reading, Arlington's career came to an end.
1904: 16-year-old Amanda Clement becomes the first female ever paid to umpire a baseball game. Each summer, she will umpire about 50 semi-pro games, receiving between $15 and $25 per game. She will become a gate attraction, with some fans coming out specifically to watch her umpire. She will leave baseball in 1911, having earned enough money to pay for her college education.