This Item 245 adds a layer of “social gaming” history to your collection. The “Tally Pool” or “Kelly Pool” set was the essential accessory for the gambling and tournament culture of the early 20th century. It turned a standard game of pocket billiards into a blind-draw competition for multiple players.

The “Bull Dog” Bottle & Composition Balls

The Brunswick-Balke-Collender (BBC) “Bull Dog” shake bottle is an icon of the era. These leather or wood-and-leather bottles were used to shake the small tally balls (often called “peas” or “pills”) and distribute them randomly to players.

  • The “Bull Dog” Branding: This was a specific BBC trademark. The bulldog symbolized the “tenacity” and “toughness” of the brand—and perhaps the competitive nature of the players using it!

  • Red Composition Balls (1–16): While your earlier sets were ivory or clay, these tally balls are Composition (likely a mixture of early celluloid, resin, and binders).

    • The 1–16 count: Standard Tally Pool used 15 balls to match the rack, but many sets included a 16th ball (often used as a scratch ball or for specific house-rule variants).

  • “Nice Original Condition”: Shake bottles were prone to cracking at the neck or losing their bottom caps from being slammed onto the table. Finding one that is still “nice” is a major selling point.

Item Profile: #245

FeatureDetailSignificance
MakerBrunswick-Balke-CollenderThe most collectible name in the “Tally” market.
ComponentsBull Dog Bottle + 1–16 Red BallsA complete, playable historical set.
MaterialRed CompositionDurable and classic; maintains its deep color better than ivory.
StatusSold to TBA perfect “lifestyle” piece for a high-end billiard room.

Collector’s Context: How it was Used

In a 1900s pool hall, players would draw a tally ball from the “Bull Dog” bottle. The number on their ball was their “secret” identity. The goal was to pocket the corresponding ball on the table. Because the numbers were hidden, it added a “poker-face” element to the game that standard pool lacked.