One hundred years ago, the Chicago Cubs played some exhibition games in Vicksburg. Spring training then was not confined to Florida and Arizona, and teams frequently “barnstormed” around America to play the equivalent of today’s spring training games against the local club, back when towns this size had a local club. Ours was the Billies.

The Cubbies went on to win the World Series in 1908. In fact, it was their second World Series championship in a row.

Could 1909 be much different? How about 1910? This was the best team in baseball, and it began a long love affair with rabid followers known for their penchant to chant, “Wait til next year” after an opening day loss.

But this year also was different. It was 100 years since the Cubs played in Vicksburg before winning a World Series. Imagine our city being a Trivial Pursuit-sized piece of World Series lore.

They’ve come close before. They’ve had the jinx of the billy goat in the 1940s, a bout with a black cat in the 60s, Leon Durham in the ‘80s and the infamous Bartman five years ago, the last time the Cubs were as good as they were this year.

The Cubs had the best record in the National League. They have a great manager and a jewel of a stadium, but no rings. The Cubs lost to the Dodgers in three straight games.

Cubs fans occupy every nook and cranny of America; Vicksburg is no different. They hurt just like everyone else, hoping to end a century of frustration. But when the Cubs finally win a World Series — it will happen one day — will anyone look upon the team the same way? Do fans have the same feelings for the Boston Red Sox as they did before their 86-year World Series drought ended in 2004?

We like to cheer for the underdogs. We like to cheer for the team no one thinks can win. That’s why the Cubs are so loved. We can relate to some of their struggles, their futilities and their faults.

So be careful what you wish for, Cubs fans, because once Lou Piniella III and Alex Rodriguez Jr. hoist that champagne bottle, no one will ever look upon the Cubbies the same way.

Sean P. Murphy is sports editor. He can be reached at smurphy@vicksburgpost.com.