30’s - 50’s Roller Derby Uniform Aging

[Esteban Kelly]

Hi! Came across this local athletic uniform from roller derby recently and had to get it. Curious on others’ thoughts on it. Tried researching the small company and found one in PA that was established in 1954. Unsure if it is the exact company unfortunately. Any info is appreciated!

 

[denisebrain]

Neat! I suspect it's for a man because of the lack of coverage on top.

 

[The Vintage Merchant]

I'm curious as to why you say it's roller derby? it sure looks alot like some early mens basketball uniforms.

 

[anothertimevintageapparel]

I thought basketball, also.

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

I concur with Maggie about it being for a man - and found adverts online for the company in Gettysburg in 1948 so it may be older than '54. If you have a subscription to Newspaperarchive.com you can find out more. What I can read says:

'1 to 10 sport shirts sizes 4 to 14 boys water repellent jackets 9iaea 4 to 14 a us com the fact that Sheaffer Bros. Auto parts 201 Chambersburg Street '

So they were doing sportswear at least. Link here. You can see the big advert in the lower right hand corner.

Nicole

 

[anothertimevintageapparel]

Sheaffer Bros would have been the sponsor of the team uniform since they are an auto parts store.

Incidentally, they are near where I live. And, they may still be in business.

 

[The Vintage Vendeuse]

I, too, think it's more likely a men's basketball uniform. As has already been pointed out, the cut of those arm openings is much too revealing to be worn by a woman.
Also, I can't find any older images of roller derby that show a sleeveless garment. In fact, the vast majority appear to be long-sleeved, which offered some protection.

1950s basketball:

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

Coincidentally, I just came across a 1940s basketball outfit that was sold by auctioneers Davis Brothers a few years ago. It has some similarities. Link here. They liked stripes, that's for sure.