Obstruction interference

Question
What is the date of when the rule for obstruction/interference of a base runner begin?

Answer
Lisa,

First off, GREAT QUESTION! Actually made me have to go back and read up on some rules.

There has always been some type of rule forbidding obstruction.  It really wasn't an issue in the early 20th century because a fielder in the way would be at the bad end of a player's spikes.  Major League Baseball really began enforcing the obstruction rules in reaction to catchers blocking home plate.  Catchers, now with shin guard and a chest protector, were more likely to block the plate without the ball, causing obstruction.  This emphasis of the rules happened around 1965-1970.

The first wording for catcher's interference was in 1899, and interference by baserunners has been around since the first beginnings of the game.

I hope this has helped!

-Martin Hoover