Norman T. Gassette

Norman Theodore Gassette (April 21, 1839 – March 26, 1891) was an American baseball executive and politician. He was president of the Chicago White Stockings for the last part of 1870 and through 1871. He also served as Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County from 1868 through 1872.

Early life Norman T. Gassette was born in April 21, 1839 in Townshend, Vermont to father Silas B. Gassette and mother Susana P. Gassette . He lived in Springfield, Massachusetts until December 1849, when his family moved to Chicago, Illinois. The White Stockings went on a tear the remainder of the season, defeating their hated rivals the Cincinnati Red Stockings, and claiming the (unofficial) title of best team in the nation. He served as president through 1871. Unfortunately, the Great Chicago Fire of October 1871 put the club out of business. This Chicago White Stockings club later became known as the Chicago Cubs. In 1872 Gassette, as president of the old White Stockings Club, chaired a meeting to revive the team, but after this turned his attention to his other business ventures.

Gassette died from pneumonia at his home in Chicago on March 26, 1891, and was buried at Rosehill Cemetery. His funeral was attended by hundreds of masons.