Gerig Field was located in what is now the Martin Luther King, Jr., Recreation Complex, located at 1510 NW 4th Street in Ocala, Florida. The ballpark was constructed in 1936 at a cost of approximately $100,000 with funds from the Works Progress Administration. Gerig Field was named in honor of John Jacob Gerig, the then-mayor of Ocala who was instrumental in gaining the funding needed to construct the ballpark.
At the time of its construction, Gerig Field was part of a sports complex known as Recreation Park, which also included softball and football fields. Recreation Park was built on the former site of the Ocala Fairgrounds. The land where Gerig Field was constructed had been a transient camp established on the fairgrounds during the Great Depression.
Infield, Former Site of Gerig Field, Ocala, Florida
In July 1993, the grandstand was demolished. However, the field remains at the site to this day.
Former Site of Gerig Field, Ocala, Florida
The American Association Milwaukee Brewers were the first professional baseball team to make Gerig Field their spring training home, training there from 1939 to 1941. The Texas League Tulsa Oilers (a Chicago Cubs affiliate) trained there also in 1940 and 1941. Both teams ceased operations in Ocala once the country entered World War II. In 1940 and 1941, the Ocala Yearlings of the Florida State League played their home games at Gerig Field.
Entrance to Baseball Fiels at the Martin Luther King, Jr., Recreation Center, Former Site of Gerig Field
After World War II, baseball returned to Gerig Field in 1948 with the arrival of the Southern Association Birmingham Barons. At that time the Barons were an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Thus began a 23 year affiliation between the Red Sox and Ocala, Florida. As an example, in 1958, the Red Sox brought the following minor league affiliates to train at Gerig: the Southern Association Memphis Chicks (short for Chickasaws), the Eastern League Allentown Red Sox, the Carolina League Raleigh Capitals, the Midwest League Waterloo Hawks, and the New York- Pennsylvania League Corning Red Sox. In 1953, the Barons became an affiliate of the New York Yankees and in 1957 an affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. At the request of the Red Sox, the Barons ceased training at Gerig Field after the 1959 spring season.
Detail of Recreation Park, Ocala, Florida (Postcard Hartman Litho Sales Company, Largo, Florida)
During the time that the minor league Red Sox were training in Ocala, the major league team trained at Payne Park in Sarasota, Florida (through 1958), Scottsdale, Arizona (1959 to 1965), and Chain of Lakes Park in Winter Haven, Florida (beginning in 1966). The Red Sox’s minor league clubs continued to train in Ocala until 1971, when the organization moved its entire minor league operation to Chain of Lakes Park. Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski, who played for the Raleigh Capitals in 1958, was one of the many Red Sox farm hands to train at Gerig Field.
Former Site of Gerig Field, Ocala, Florida
An adjoining practice field – known now as Pinkney Woodbury Field – remains at the site. Pinkney Woodbury was a Ocala resident and community activist who encouraged the construction of youth playgrounds and athletic fields in the western section of Ocala.
Pinkney Woodbury Field, Former Spring Training Practice Field Adjacent to Gerig Field
Surrounding Pinkney Woodbury Field along the first and third base lines is a white painted fence built of Ocala limerock that is original to the spring training site.
Ocala Limerock Fence Located along the Third Base Side of Pinkney Woodbury Field in Ocala, Florida
The limerock fence that parallels the first base side of Pinkney Woodbury Field is a remnant of Gerig Field, as it a portion of the fence that ran along the ballpark’s left field foul line.
Gerig Field’s Limerock That Ran Along the Left Field Foul Line
When first constructed, limestone fence once encircled perimeters of both Gerig Field and the adjacent practice field (Pinkney Woodbury Field). The portion of the fence that remains at the site terminates just beyond Pinkney Woodbury Field’s first base and third base grandstands.
Terminus of Original Ocala Limestone Fence, Third Base Grandstand, Pickney Woodbury Field, Ocala, Florida
Terminus of Original Ocala Limestone Fence, First Base Grandstand, Pickney Woodbury Field, Ocala, Florida
Pinkney Woodbury Field, like Gerig Field, is a throwback to early Florida ballpark construction.
Main Entrance Gate, Pinkney Woodbury Field, Ocala, Florida
The first base and third base grandstands at Pinkney Woodbury Field match the limerock fence that surrounds the field.
Third Base Grandstand, Pinkney Woodbury Field, Ocala, Florida
First Base Grandstand, Pinkney Woodbury Field, Ocala, Florida
Pinkney Woodbury Field also includes a distinctive concrete concession stand located behind home plate.
Covered, concrete block dugouts sit just beyond the first and third base grandstands.
Third Base Dugout, Pinkney Woodbury Field, Ocala, Florida
Pinkney Woodbury Field is used for local school teams, as well as youth baseball leagues.
Pinkney Woodbury Field, Ocala, Florida
Pinkney Woodbury Scoreboard, Ocala, Florida
The building that once housed the Gerig Field’s player clubhouse also remains at the site.
Building That Was Once Player Clubhouse, Gerig Field, Ocala, Florida
The clubhouse was located in the left field corner of Gerig Field. The limestone fence once intersected the northern most side of clubhouse.
Building That Was Once Player Clubhouse, Gerig Field, Ocala, Florida
In 2010, the former clubhouse was renovated and is now used as a Senior Activity Center.
Plaque Dedicating Former Gerig Field Player Clubhouse as the Barbara Gaskin Washington Senior Activity Center.
Although Gerig Field is long gone, the site is still very much worth a visit for fans of the history of the game. The ball field where many former major league and minor league players once trained remains at the site. Likewise, Pinkney Woodbury Field is a wonderful gem that harkens back to early days of Florida spring training.
Center Field Fence Looking Toward Infield, Pinkney Woodbury Field, Ocala, Florida
For more information about the history of Gerig Field and baseball in Ocala, Florida, be sure to read the excellent article by Carlos Medina on ocala.com, from which much of the factual information for this blog was obtained.
Bears Stadium was located at 2755 West 17th Avenue, in Denver, Colorado. Constructed in 1947, the ballpark was the home of the Western Association Denver Bears beginning in 1948. From 1949 to 1951, the Bears were an affiliate of the Boston Braves, and from 1952 to 1954, they were an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In 1955, the Bears joined the American Association, where the team remained through the 1992 season, with the exception of 1963 to 1968 when the team played in the Pacific League.
Bears Stadium, Denver, Colorado (Postcard Dexter Press Inc., Published by Sanborn Souvenir Co.)
The team’s major league affiliation changed every few years, beginning with the New York Yankees from 1956 to 1958, the Detroit Tigers from 1960 to 1962, the Milwaukee Braves from 1963 to 1964, the Minnesota Twins from 1965 to 1969, the Washington Senators from 1970 to 1971, the Texas Rangers in 1972 and 1982, the Houston Astros from 1973 to 1974, the Chicago White Sox in 1975 and from 1983 to 1984, the Montreal Expos from 1976 to 1981, the Cincinnati Reds from 1986 to 1987, and the Milwaukee Brewers from 1988 to 1992. In 1984, the team changed its name to the Denver Zephyrs in honor of a passenger train of the same name that ran between Chicago, Illinois, and Denver, Colorado, beginning in the 1930s. In 1993, with the arrival of the Major League Colorado Rockies, the Zephyrs moved to New Orleans, Louisiana.
Aerial Photo of Mile High Stadium With Denver, Colorado in Background (Postcard Sanborn Souvenir Co., Made by Kina Italia, Photo by William P. Sanborn)
Beginning in 1960 the ballpark was expanded with additional bleacher seating to house fans of the American Football League Denver Broncos.
Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado, Configured for Baseball (Postcard Plastichrome, Distributed by G.R. Dickson)
In 1968, the City of Denver purchased the ballpark, added portions of an upper deck, and renamed the venue Mile High Stadium. In 1970, the Broncos joined the National Football League. Additional seats were added during the 1970s, including a section in left field that could be moved to accommodate either baseball or football.
Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado (Postcard by Plastichrome, Distributed by G.R. Dickson Co.)
In 1993, the MLB expansion Colorado Rockies began play at Mile High Stadium. That season the Rockies set the all-time MLB home attendance record of 4,483,350.
Coors Field, Denver, Colorado, Circa 1998
In 1996, the Rockies moved two miles northeast of Mile High Stadium to the newly constructed Coors Field, leaving the Broncos as the sole permanent tenant of Mile High Stadium.
Coors Field, Denver, Colorado, Circa 1998
The Broncos played at Mile High Stadium through the 2000 season. In 2001 the team moved to newly constructed Invesco Field at Mile High, which was built adjacent to Mile High Stadium, directly to the south.
Sports Authority Stadium at Mile High, Located South of Former Site of Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
In 2012, the football stadium was renamed Sports Authority Field at Mile High.
Colorado Sports Hall of Fame at Sports Authority Field, Former Site, Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
A plaque located in the north parking lot of Sports Authority Field commemorates the history of Bears Stadium and Mile High Stadium.
Plaque Honoring Former Site of Bears Stadium and Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
Former Site of Bears Stadium and Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
Placed there by the Society for American Baseball Research and the Colorado Rockies, the plaque reads:
“As you look to the north from this spot you are viewing the land upon which stood Bears Stadium. From 1948 to 1994, it was the home of professional baseball in Denver. The Denver Bears (later renamed the Zephyrs in 1985) played at Bears Stadium (later renamed Mile High Stadium) through 1992. When Major League Baseball arrived in Denver in 1993, Mile High Stadium housed the Colorado Rockies for two seasons until Coors Field was completed in 1995. The precise location of home plate is indicated by a commemorative landmark approximately 500 ft. to the north of this plaque.”
Former Site of Home Plate, Bears Stadium and Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
A grass berm sits along the north and west side of the parking lot. That area is where the first and third base grandstand of Bears Stadium once stood.
Former Site of Center Field, Looking Towards Home Plate, Bears Stadium and Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
One additional landmark at the site is the former Hotel VQ, which is located at 1975 Mile High Stadium Circle just beyond the former site of left field. Built in 1982, the building is being converted to micro apartments.
Hotel VQ, Located Beyond Former Site of Left Field, Bears Stadium and Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
For almost half a century, baseball was played in what is now the north parking lot of Stadium Authority Field. Thanks to SABR and the Colorado Rockies, the site is well marked and certainly worth a visit. Many thanks to Jason Papka for providing the recent pictures of the site.
Former Site of Bears Stadium and Mile High Stadium, Located Just South of Downtown Denver, Colorado
Damaschke Field is located at 15 James Georgeson Avenue in Oneonta, New York, just 24 miles south of Cooperstown, New York.
Entrance to Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
The ball field dates back to 1905 when it was known as Elm Park. Located in Neahwa Park, for a time the ball field also was known as Neahwa Park.
Aerial of Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York (Postcard McGrew Color Graphics, Kansas City MO, photo copyright 1987 Bruce Endries)
In 1968, the ballpark was renamed Dutch Damaschke Field in honor of Earnest C. “Dutch” Damaschke, the long-time Commissioner of Recreation for the City of Oneonta.
Ticket Booth, Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
The stadium structure has changed over the years, although the concrete and steel grandstand dates back to 1939. Like many other ballparks of that era, it was constructed with funds from the Works Projects Administration. Funds also were donated by William F. Eggleston, owner of the Oneonta Grocery Company.
Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
Plaque Honoring William F. Eggleston, Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
in 2007, the city renovated the ballpark, adding new bleacher seating down the first and third base lines, as well as new player clubhouses and concession stands.
Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
The view from the grandstand down the first and third base lines is an interesting juxtaposition of the old and the new, with the 1930s WPA grandstand seating along side the modern bleacher seating behind first and third base.
Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
In 2008, with the addition of a new clubhouse for the players, the former locker room located under the grandstand was turned into storage space.
Locker Room Turned Storage Room, Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
A Oneonta Yankees Time Capsule, Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
During the first two decades of its existence, the ballpark hosted mostly amateur, college, and semi professional teams. The Brooklyn Royal Giants played an exhibition game at Neahwa Park on August 19, 1920, defeating the Oneonta Cubs 13-3. Two months later, on October 16, 1920, the Babe Ruth All Stars played an exhibition game against the local Endicott-Johnson team. Babe Ruth hit a home run over the right field fence during the eighth inning of the barnstorming game. In the fifth inning of that game, Ruth reportedly fractured a small bone in his left wrist while attempting slide into first base, although the following day in Jersey City he hit another of his exhibition home runs, suggesting that his wrist was fine.
Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
The first professional team to call the ballpark home was the Oneonta Indians, who played in the New York-Pennsylvania League for one season in 1924.
Grandstand Roof, Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
Professional baseball returned to Oneonta in 1940 with the arrival from Ottawa of the Canadian-American Baseball League (Can-Am) Oneonta Indians. In 1941 the Indians became an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Baseball in Oneonta was suspended after the 1942 season, but the team returned in 1946 following the end of World War II as the Oneonta Red Sox. The Red Sox played in Oneonta through the 1951 season, and professional baseball once again was on hiatus in Oneonta.
Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York, Situated in the Foothills of the Catskill Mountains.
Professional baseball returned in 1966, with the arrival of the New York-Penn League Oneonta Red Sox. In 1967, Oneonta became a farm team of the New York Yankees, thus beginning the city’s longest affiliation with a single major league team. Over the years, MLB players such as Don Mattingly, Bernie Williams, Andy Pettitte, Al Leiter, Jorge Posada, Curtis Granderson, and Willie McGee began their careers at Damaschke field.
Wall of Fame, Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
Future National Football Hall of Famer John Elway also began his professional baseball career at Damaschke Field in 1981. The following year he was drafted by the Denver Broncos. In 1985, Buck Showalter started his professional managerial career as skipper of the Oneonta Yankees.
Former Locker Room, Painted Yankee Blue, Located Under Grandstand, Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
The Oneonta Yankees departed Damaschke Field after the 1998 season. The Oneonta Tigers arrived the following season, and played at Damaschke Field through the 2009 season.
Oneonta Tigers Sign, In Storage in Former Players Lockerroom Underneath Grandstand at Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
Although professional baseball no longer is played at Damaschke Field, it still is possible to take in a baseball game at the ballpark during the summer. Damaschke Field currently is the home of the New York Collegiate Baseball League Oneonta Outlaws, who play during the months of June and July. The city of Oneonta still uses the ballpark for civic events such as graduations, holiday celebrations, and concerts.
Grandstand Seating, Damaschke Field, Oneonta, New York
The ballpark most certainly is worth a visit. Given its proximity to Cooperstown, there should be a steady stream of visitors each summer, looking for a wonderful baseball experience in what is known as one of the coziest ballparks in the country.
Henninger Field is located at the intersection of Vine Street and Riddle Alley in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.
Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
The ball field dates back to 1895 and originally was known as Wolf Park, part of the Wolf Lake Park development named after Chambersburg businessman Augustus Wolf.
Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Located at the Intersection of Vine and Poplar Street
In 1895, Clay Henninger, a Chambersburg businessman and local baseball promoter, founded the Chambersburg Maroons. The team began play at Wolf Park that same season.
Herringer Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Originally an amateur team, over the years the Maroons played both semi-professional and a minor league baseball. In 1896, the Maroons joined the independent Cumberland Valley League and won the the championship that season. The following year, the Maroons joined the Industrial League.
The 1914 Chambersburg Maroons With Manager Clay Henninger (wearing suit) (photograph from display at Herringer Field, Franklin County Historical Society)
In 1915, the Maroons joined the Class D Blue Ridge League, where they played through the 1917 season. With baseball operations suspended during World War I, the Maroons returned to Chambersburg and the Blue Ridge League in 1920, after the end of the war. That same year the ballpark was renamed Henninger Field in honor of Clay Henninger.
In 1929 and 1930 the team was owned by the New York Yankees and its name was changed to the Chambersburg Young Yanks. The Young Yanks were the New York Yankees first farm team.
May 31, 1929, the World Champion New York Yankees played an exhibition game at Henninger Field. The Yankees arrived in Chambersburg earlier in the day and, after a brief rest at the Hotel Washington, traveled to Henninger Field for a 3:30 game against the Chambersburg Young Yanks.
Hotel Washington, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania (Postcard Curt Teich & Co., Published by Louis Kaufmann & Sons)
Babe Ruth played first base and hit a home run in the fifth inning over the center field fence, with Lou Gehrig and one other player aboard.
Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
The Yankees won the exhibition 8-1. After the game, Ruth reportedly visited a Waters Street speakeasy while Gehrig signed autographs at a local drug store.
First Base, Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
First Base Bleachers, Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Third Base Foul Line, Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Several Major League players have called Henninger Field home, including third baseman Mike Mowery, a 15 year veteran who played for the Cincinnati Reds, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Brooklyn Dodgers.
Third Base, Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Presumably future Hall of Famer Nellie Fox, who was born and raised just one town over from Chambersburg in St. Thomas, Pennsylvania, played baseball at Henninger Field, perhaps the year he played in the Chambersburg Twilight League.
First Base Dugout, Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
The bowling alley Fox once owned, which still bears his name, is located in Chambersburg, just four and a half miles south of Henninger Field on Molly Pitcher Highway.
Nelly Fox Bowl in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
The Chambersburg Maroons ceased playing at Henninger Field after the 2010 season. The Chambersburg High School Trojans football, baseball, and soccer teams also played their games at Henninger Field, although in the last decade the school has played elsewhere.
A Left Field Backdrop of Warehouses, Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Henninger Field is a little-known, historic ballpark that represents a part of baseball’s bygone era of town baseball. The Borough of Chambersburg has owned and operated the property since the early 1930s, once professional baseball departed the borough. Chambersburg is rightly proud of its historic ballpark and should be commended for maintaining the field for the last 80-plus years.
Historical Display at Henninger Field, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
The ballpark is just two miles west of I-81 at the interchange for Stoufferstown, Pennsylvania, should you find yourself traveling that highway. Take a moment to soak in the history of this modest ballpark. And while you are at it, stand on the same spot where Babe Ruth once hit one of his famous exhibition game home runs.
Grayson Stadium is located at 1401 East Victory Drive in Savannah, Georgia. Opened in 1926, the ballpark originally was known as Municipal Stadium.
Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
Located in Daffin Park, Grayson Stadium is part of the Daffin Park-Parkside historic district and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
The ballpark is one of the most picturesque in the country. Sadly, it appears professional baseball will be departing Savannah at the end of the 2015 season.
Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
The Savannah Indians of the South Atlantic League played at Municipal Stadium beginning in 1926, through the 1928 season, and returned in 1936.
Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
On August 11, 1940, a Category 2 hurricane struck Savannah, destroying a substantial portion of the ballpark. Only two sections of concrete bleachers were left standing.
Exterior of Original Concrete Bleachers, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
One of those sections, which once sat beyond left field, was demolished during a renovation of the ballpark in 1995.
Blue Prints Detailing Original Municipal Stadium Layout (armstrongdigitalhistory.org)
The other concrete bleachers section remaining from the original 1926 ballpark sits along the first base line.
Exterior of Original Concrete Bleachers, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
View from Grandstand of Original Concrete Bleachers, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
Interior View of Original Concrete Bleachers, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
After the hurricane, Municipal Stadium was rebuilt in 1940-1941, under the leadership of Spanish-American War veteran General William L. Grayson, and with funds from the Work Progress Administration.
View from Grandstand, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
With the ballpark substantially complete in 1941, construction was a halted during World War II.
First Base Side Grandstand, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
A portion of the third base grandstand remained uncompleted for seven decades, and was finished only recently.
Third Base Grandstand With Brick Work Completed Some 70 Seasons Later
In 1941, the City of Savannah renamed the ballpark in honor of General Grayson, who died that same year.
Plaque Honoring William H. Grayson and 1941 Renovation of Grayson Stadium Grandstand, Savannah, Georgia
In 1943, the South Atlantic League suspended operations because of the war and the Indians departed Grayson Stadium. The Indians returned in 1946, playing at Grayson Stadium through the 1953 season.
Concession Stand Underneath First Base Grandstand, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
In 1954, Savannah’s South Atlantic League team became an affiliate of the Kansas City Athletics. The team switched its name to the Savannah A’s in 1954. Savannah’s South Atlantic League team switched affiliates several more times, beginning in 1956 with Cincinnati Reds (through 1959), Pittsburgh Pirates (1960, also from 1936 to 1938), and the Chicago White Sox (1962).
Grayson Stadium Grandstand, Circa 1941, Savannah, Georgia
Savannah did not field a team in 1961, and from 1963 to 1967. In 1968 Savannah joined the Southern League as an affiliate of the Washington Senators. The team remained in the Southern League through 1983, with the exception of 1971, when Savannah played in the Dixie Association. In 1969 the Senators and the Houston Astros shared the Savannah affiliate, and, in 1970, Savannah became an affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. From 1971 to 1983, Savannah was an affiliate of the Atlanta Braves.
Ticket Booth, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
In 1984, Savannah rejoined the South Atlantic League, as an affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, with whom they remained affiliated through the 1994 season. The team changed its name to the Sand Gnats in 1995, and was an affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1995 to 1997, the Texas Rangers from 1998 to 2002, the Montreal Expos from 2003 to 2005, the Washington Nationals from 2005 to 2006, and the New York Mets from 2007 to 2015.
Tonight’s South Alantic League Standings and Lineup, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
In addition to the Indians and the Sand Gnats, since 1926, Savannah’s minor league team has been known as the A’s, the Redlegs, the Reds, the Pirates, the White Sox, the Senators, the Braves, and the Cardinals.
Plaque Honoring John Henry Moss, President SAL, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
As for Babe Ruth, he appeared at least two times at Municipal Stadium: first, in 1927, during a spring exhibition game between the 1926 World Series champions St. Louis Cardinals and the American League champions New York Yankees, which the Cardinals won 20-10; and second in 1935, as a member of the Boston Braves when his team played an exhibition game against South Georgia Teacher’s College, which is now Georgia Southern University. The Braves won that contest 15 – 1, during which Ruth hit a third-inning home run over the fence in right field.
Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
A 1995 renovation to Grayson Stadium was renovated, brought the addition of a press box above the grandstand roof and the demolition of the left field bleachers.
Press Box Above Home Plate and Third Base, Home Team Dugout, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
In 2007, another renovation added a new scoreboard in center field.
Apparently, the older the ballpark, the louder the drum beat is to replace it. Unfortunately, what fans find quaint about old ballparks, the teams actually playing there find challenging at best.
Years of Paint and Changing Colors, Reflected in Bench Seating at Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
In 2015, the Sand Gnats announced they would be departing Grayson Stadium at the end of the season and relocating to a new ballpark being constructed in Columbia, South Carolina.
Main Concourse, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
The departure of the Sand Gnats most likely spells the end of professional baseball at Grayson Stadium.
Entrance to Grandstand from Concourse, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
The good news is it appears that a collegiate wooden bat team will be playing at Grayson Stadium beginning in 2016.
Bullpen, Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
If you want to catch a professional game at Grayson Stadium, the Sand Gnat’s season runs through September 2, 2015.
Carolina Pines Left Field at Grayson Stadium, Savannah, Georgia
The ballpark most definitely is worth a visit. If you are anywhere near Savannah, and are a fan of the game (which presumably you are or you would not be reading this) be sure to take in a game at Historic Grayson Stadium before professional baseball departs its friendly confines.
Ned Skeldon Stadium is located at 2901 Key Street in Maumee, Ohio. The ballpark was the home of the International League Toledo Mud Hens from 1965 to 2001.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
The ballpark is located in the Lucas County Recreation Center and originally was part of the Lucas County Fairgrounds.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
In 1955, when the Toledo Mud Hens departed Swayne Field and moved to Wichita, Kansas, Toledo was left without a minor league team. Ned Skeldon, who served as Toledo Vice Mayor and four terms as a Lucas County Commissioner, led the drive to bring minor league baseball back to area and to convert a former racetrack (Fort Miami Park) and football field on the Lucas County Fair Grounds into a minor league facility. The racetrack turned ballpark opened in 1965 as Lucas County Stadium.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
The former International League Richmond Virginians moved to Maumee in 1965, thanks in large part to the efforts of Skeldon, and in 1988 Lucas County Stadium was renamed in his honor, just three months prior to his death.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
Several Major League franchises were affiliated with the Mud Hens during the team’s years in Maumee. Primarily, the Mud Hens were an affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, for 22 seasons from 1967 to 1973 and from 1987 to 2001. Other Major League teams affiliated with the Mud Hens during the team’s years at Skeldon Field include the New York Yankees from 1965 to 1966, the Philadelphia Phillies from 1974 to 1975 (with future Hall of Famer Jim Bunning as manager), the Cleveland Indians from 1976 to 1977, and the Minnesota Twins from 1978 to 1986.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
Ned Skeldon Stadium’s grandstand is uniquely configured because of its past as a racetrack for harness racing.
Front Entrance to Former Fort Miami Park, Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
Fort Miami Park opened in 1917. It’s grandstand is located along the third base foul line and dates back to at least the 1920’s. In the late 1920’s, Fort Miami Park became the first harness racetrack in the country to feature night racing under electric lights.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
When the ballpark was enclosed for baseball in the mid 1960’s Lucas County added a grandstand behind home plate that wrapped around to the first base.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
The break in the grandstand between home plate and third base is somewhat reminiscent of the third base grandstand at Washington’s Griffith Stadium.
Former Fort Miami Park Grandstand at Ned Skeldon Stadium, Maumee, Ohio
Concourse Underneath Former Fort Miami Park Grandstand, Now Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
In 2002, the Mud Hens moved eight miles northeast to brand new Fifth Third Field, located at 406 Washington Street in Toledo, Ohio. In case you were wondering, the name Fifth Third Field is a reference to Fifth Third Bank and the early 1900’s merger of two Cincinnati Banks, Third National Bank and Fifth National Bank.
Fifth Third Field,Toledo, Ohio
After the Mud Hens departed Ned Skeldon Stadium, the ballpark, as part of the Lucas County Recreation Center complex, has continued to host amateur baseball, as well special events such as Fourth of July Fireworks. Private companies such as Line Drive Sportz have leased the facility and helped provide funds for its upkeep.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
Ned Skeldon Stadium hosted Minor league baseball for 37 seasons. Prior to that, as Fort Miami Park, facility hosted harness racing for 40 years. The good news is Ned Skeldon Stadium does not appear to be in danger any time soon of becoming another lost ballpark.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
If you are a baseball fan in Toledo, be sure to visit not only Ned Skeldon Stadium but also the site of Swayne Field, where the Mud Hens played from 1909 to 1955. The site is now the Swayne Field Shopping Center. Behind the shopping center is one of the oldest ballpark relics still standing in its original spot – a concrete wall that was once the left field wall at Swayne Field. The wall was built in 1909, the year Swayne Field opened, and is located just 10 miles northeast of Ned Skeldon Stadium at the intersection of Detroit Street and Council Street. Swayne Field also is located just two miles northwest of Fifth Third Field.
Swayne Field’s Original Outfield Wall, Looking Toward Left Field Corner From Detroit Street, Toledo, Ohio
Swayne Field was located at the intersection of Monroe Street and Detroit Avenue in Toledo, Ohio. The ballpark opened on July 3, 1909, as the home of the American Association Toledo Mud Hens. The ballpark was named after Noah Swayne, Jr., who purchased the land for the ballpark and leased it to the team.
Swayne Field Postcard (Postcard Published by Harry Hamm, Toledo, Ohio)
Toledo’s American Association franchise played at Swayne Field through the 1955 season, with the exception of 1914 and 1915 when the team relocated to Cleveland and played at League Park to keep the Federal League from establishing a team in that city. As a replacement for the city baseball fans, the Southern Michigan League Mud Hens played at Swayne Field in 1914.
Toledo’s team was known primarily as the Mud Hens, although the team changed names twice, beginning with the Toledo Iron Men from 1916 to 1918 and the Toledo Sox from 1952 to 1955. Many great ballplayers passed through future Hall of Famer Casey Stengel who managed the team from 1926 to 1931.
Negro League baseball was played at Swayne Field, including the Negro National League Toledo Tigers in 1923, the Negro American League Toledo Crawfords in 1939 (featuring future Hall of Famer Oscar Charleston), and the United States League Toledo Cubs in 1945 (featuring future Hall of Famer Norman “Turkey” Stearnes). Swayne Field also was the site of many Negro League exhibition games over the years.
Professional Football also was played at Swayne Field. The Ohio League Toledo Maroons played at Swayne Field from 1909 to 1921 and the National Football League Toledo Maroons played there in 1923.
“Wayne Field Base Ball Park Toledo Ohio” Postcard With Error in Name (Published by Boutelle, Toledo, Ohio)
The ballpark was demolished in 1956 to make way for Swayne Field Shopping Center and what was then the largest Kroger store store in the country.
Save-A-Lot Grocery Store, Former Koger Store and Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
A McDonald’s Restaurant sits in the former site of right field, just as a different McDonald’s sits in the former site of left field at Baltimore’s old American League Park. St. Ann’s Catholic Church is visible behind Swayne Field’s former right field corner, just as a different St. Ann’s Catholic Church is visible a few blocks from Baltimore’s old American League Park.
Former Site of Right Field, Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
The building that comprises the Swayne Field Shopping Center is located in what was once left and center field.
Location of Left and Center, Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
Home plate and the grandstand behind home plate was located mid block on Monroe Street between Detroit Street and former Toledo Terminal Railroad tracks. A Sherwin-Williams store now marks the spot.
Location of Infield Looking Toward Home Plate, Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
First base ran parallel to Monroe Street. Some of the buildings dating to the time of Swayne Field remain near the site on Monroe Street.
Center Field Looking Toward First Base Foul Line, Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
Most remarkable, however, is that a portion of Swayne Field’s original concrete wall remains at the site.
Original Outfield Wall, Looking Toward Left Field Corner From Detroit Street, Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
The concrete wall once enclosed the the ballpark along Detroit Street (the first base foul line) around to Council Street (left and center field).
Swayne Field Opening Day 1909 (Bryan Postcard Company, Bryan, Ohio)
The portion of the wall that remains today was once part of the left center field wall, and is located behind the shopping center, parallel to Council Street.
Original Concrete Outfield Wall at Intersection of Detroit Street and Council Street, Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
The structure is over one hundred years old and in desperate need of repair.
Hole In Original Left Field Wall (Looking Toward Council Street) Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
How historically significant is the Swayne Field wall? As an actual ballpark relic, the Swayne Field wall is one year older than both Rickwood Field, the oldest former professional ballpark still standing, which opened in August 1910, and the 1910 renovation of League Park in Cleveland (League Park’s ticket house may date to 1909). The wall is three years older than Fenway Park, the oldest Major League ballpark still standing, which opened in 1912. The wall is five years older than the somewhat famous Washington Park Wall, a relic of Brooklyn’s Federal League Tip Tops ballpark, which was constructed in 1914, and Wrigley Field, which opened in 1914 as Weeghman Park, home for the Federal League Chicago Whales. The wall is six years older both Bosse Field, the third oldest professional ballpark still in continuous use, built in 1915, and the remnants of Braves Field, which opened in 1915. Athough Forbes Field was constructed in 1909, the same year as Swayne Field, the outfield wall that remains at the Forbes Field site was built in 1946.
Brooklyn’s Washington Park Wall, A Relic of the Federal League Brooklyn Tip Tops, Built in 1914 (photo circa 2006, note: a portion of the wall has since been demolished)
All that is left of the Swayne Field wall closest to the left field corner are some of the concrete pillars.
Concrete Pillars From Original Outfield Wall, Looking Toward Center Field, Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
Original Concrete Pillars of Outfield Wall, Looking Toward Left Field Corner, Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
Out beyond what was once the left field corner is a brick building that dates back to the time of Swayne Field and is now Burkett Restaurant Supply.
Industrial Building (Currently Burkett Restaurant Supply), Beyond Left Field Corner, Former Site of Swayne Field, Toledo, Ohio
After Swayne Field was demolished, Toledo was without a minor league affiliate from 1956 to 1964. In 1965, the Mud Hens returned to the area, playing in what was then called Lucas County Stadium, a converted race track at the Lucas County Fairgrounds, ten miles southwest of Swayne Field in Maumee, Ohio. Lucas County Stadium was subsequently renamed Ned Skeldon Stadium after the person who helped bring minor league baseball back to the Toledo area.
Ned Skeldon Stadium, Toledo, Ohio
In 2003 the Toledo Mud Hens left Ned Skeldon Stadium and returned to downtown Toledo, playing in brand new Fifth Third Field located just two miles southeast of the Swayne Field site.
Fifth Third Field,Toledo, Ohio, Home Of The Toledo Mud Hens
On the Fifth Third Field club level is a display dedicated to the memory of Swayne Field.
Swayne Field Display, Fifth Third Field,Toledo, Ohio
Included in the display is a piece of the original Swayne Field Wall.
Swayne Field Display With Piece of Original , Outfield Wall, Fifth Third Field,Toledo, Ohio
If you are a fan of the game and the history of baseball, a stop at Swayne Field Shopping Center is a must, if for no other reason than to see a ballpark relic that is over one hundred years old. There are not many professional baseball stadium structures in the United States older than the Swayne Field wall. The portion that remains is located at the corner of Detroit Street and Council Street.
Since at least 1917, baseball has been played at a ball field located at 633 Jessamine Street near the intersection of East 5th Street and Jessamine Street in Knoxville Tennessee. In 1916, William Caswell, a former confederate soldier, donated land to the city in East Knoxville for construction of a public park, including a ball field, which became known as Caswell Park. Caswell was one of the original longtime fans of the game, having participated in what may have been the first game of baseball played in Tennessee – an 1865 contest between the Holstons, Caswell’s team, composed of former Confederate soldiers, and the Knoxvilles, composed of former Union soldiers.
Ball Field at 633 Jessamine Street, Formerly Caswell Field, Smithson Stadium, and Bill Meyer Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
Professional baseball was first played at 633 Jessamine Street in 1921, when the Appalachian League Knoxville Pioneers called Caswell Field home. In 1925, Knoxville changed leagues and names, joining the South Atlantic League as the Knoxville Smokies, in honor of the nearby Great Smoky Mountains. Knoxville did not field a team in 1930, and shared a Southern Association team with Mobile in 1931 (playing their games in Mobile, Alabama).
Former Site of Caswell Field, Smithson Stadium, and Bill Meyer Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
In 1932, Caswell Field was replaced with a new ballpark, Smithson Stadium, named in honor of the Knoxville City Councilman W.N. Smithson who spearheaded a drive to bring professional baseball back to the city. The Southern Association Knoxville Smokies returned that same year, playing their home games at Smithson Park. In 1946, the Smokies joined the Tri State League and in 1953 played in the Mountain States League.
Memorial Garden, Former Site of Bill Meyer Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
In 1953 Smithson Stadium was demolished by a fire and the city constructed a new ballpark, Municipal Stadium, on the site. In 1954 the Smokies rejoined the Tri-State League for one season, playing at new Municipal Stadium. Knoxville did not have a professional team in 1955, but half way through the 1956 season the South Atlantic League Montgomery Rebels moved to Knoxville.
Bill Meyer Stadium Postcard
In 1957, Municipal Stadium was renamed Bill Meyer Stadium in honor of Knoxville native and former major league player and manager William Adam Meyer. In 1964, the Smokies joined the Southern League, where they have played ever since. In 1972 the team changed its name to the Knoxville Sox and in 1980, the Knoxville Blue Jays. In 1993, the team changed its name back to the Knoxville Smokies.
Plaque Honoring Bill Meyer Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
Professional baseball departed Bill Meyer Stadium after the 1999 season. In 2003 the stadium was demolished and in 2008 the ball field was renamed “Ridley-Helton Ballfield.” Neal Ridley was a former owner of the Knoxville Smokies and was largely responsible for keeping minor league baseball in Knoxville in the 1950s. Todd Helton is a Knoxville native and former Major League player who provided funds to renovate the ball field.
Plaque Honoring Neal Ridley and Todd Helton at Former Site of Bill Meyer Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
Although the Bill Meyer Stadium structure is long gone, the field remains, as well as modest bleachers and covered dugouts.
First Base Foul Line and Dugout, Ridley-Helton Field, Knoxville, Tennessee
The stadium grandstand behind home plate once sat in what is now an extension of Jessamine Street, which runs behind home plate and a memorial park.
Former Location of Third Base Grandstand, Bill Meyer Stadium, Now Ridley-Helton Field, Knoxville, Tennessee
A metal storage shed remains on the site from the time of Bill Meyer Stadium, still painted Knoxville Smokies blue.
Storage Shed Remaining At Site Next to Former Terminus of Third Base Grandstand
Out beyond left field is the former Standard Knitting Mills Building. The building has loomed large over the outfield wall since its construction in the mid 1940’s.
Standard Knitting Mills Building Out Beyond Left Field at Ridley-Helton Field, Formerly Bill Meyer Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
Detail of Standard Knitting Mills Building, Knoxville, Tennessee
Several light stanchions original to Bill Meyer Stadium remain at the site as well.
Light Stanchion, Ridley-Helton Field, Formerly Bill Meyer Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
Today Ridley-Helton Field continues to host youth and high school baseball, helping insure that baseball will continue to be played into the field’s second century.
Right Field Line, Ridley-Helton Field, Formerly Bill Meyer Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
In 2000, the Knoxville Smokies moved 20 miles east to a new ballpark, Smokies Park, located in Kodak, Tennessee. Having departed Knoxville, the team changed its name to the Tennessee Smokies.
Smokies Stadium, Kodak, Tennessee, Home of the Tennessee Smokies
Smokies Park also serves as a visitor center for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Smokies Park and Smoky Mountain Visitors Center, Kodak, Tennessee
Out beyond right field are four wood stadium seats from Bill Meyer Stadium, painted Knoxville Smokies blue.
Seats from Bill Meyer Stadium, Located Beyond Left Field Wall, Smokies Stadium, Kodak, Tennessee
Smokies Park is a fine minor league facility and a great place to watch a game of baseball. However, it has another 85 years before it can match the nearly 100 years of baseball that has been played at the Smokies former home in Knoxville.
Chicago Cubs Prospect Kris Bryant at Smokies Stadium, Kodak, Tennessee
Pullman Park was located at 100 Pullman Park Place near the intersection of Pillow Street and Plum Street in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
The ballpark (first base side) was located alongside the former Standard Steel Car Company plant which manufactured railroad rolling stock (railroad cars) beginning in 1902. Standard Steel was acquired by Pullman Car and Manufacturing Company in 1929 and merged in 1934 to become the Pullman-Standard Car Manufacturing Company.
Cut Stone Office Building that Once Housed Pullman Standard Manufacturing Company, Butler, Pennsylvania
In 1934 Pullman-Standard provided the land and and constructed Pullman Park. The company then donated the ballpark to the City of Butler.
Ticket Window, Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
In 1935, Pullman Park was the home of the Class-D Pennsylvania State Association (PSA) Butler Indians, an affiliate of the Cleveland Indians.
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
In 1936 the PSA Butler Yankees arrived in Butler and played their home games at Pullman Park. The Butler Yankees played through the 1942 season in Butler. During World War II, Butler did not field a team. The Butler Yankees returned to Pullman Park in 1946, playing in the Middle Atlantic League. The 1947 season was notable because it saw the professional debut of future Hall of Famer Whitey Ford who pitched for Butler that season. The Butler Yankees departed after the 1948 season.
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
From 1949 to 1951, the Butler Tigers played their home games at Pullman Park. In 1949 and 1950, the Butler Tigers were an affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. In 1951 they were an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
First Base Grandstand Bleacher Seating, Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
Negro League exhibition games also were played at Pullman Park. At least one such game was played on July 8, 1937, when the Negro National League Homestead Grays played the NNL Pittsburgh Crawfords at Pullman Park.
Homestead Grays Poster (On Display at Kelly Automotive Park), Butler, Pennsylvania
Professional baseball departed Pullman Park after the 1951 season, and the ballpark thereafter was used primarily for high school baseball.
Light Stanchion, Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
In 2005, the city closed Pullman Park. The ballpark was demolished in 2007 to make way for an entirely new baseball facility at the site. Below is a video of Pullman Park filmed in 2006, after the city had stopped utilizing Pullman Park for high school baseball, but before demolition had begun on the ballpark.
In 2007, the City of Butler began construction of new Pullman Park, designed to host both high school and college games. The ballpark includes a turf infield and natural grass outfield. In 2014, the name of the ballpark was changed to Kelly Automotive Park. The transformation of the ballpark from old Pullman Park to Kelly Automotive was remarkable. Although it is unfortunate that none of the original ballpark could be saved and preserved, by 2007 apparently there wasn’t much that could be reused, other than the field itself.
Kelly Automotive Park, Formerly Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
Grandstand, Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
To get a sense of the transformation from Pullman Park to Kelly Automotive Park, below are before and after pictures of the ballpark taken from approximately the same angle and location. In 2006 I was unable to gain access to the park, so all the pictures of the old park are from outside looking in.
The front entrance from the third base side:
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
Kelly Automotive Park, Formerly Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
The exterior of the third base grandstand:
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
Kelly Automotive Park, Formerly Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
The front entrance from the first base side:
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
Kelly Automotive Park, Formerly Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
Exterior of the ballpark looking south:
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
Kelly Automotive Park, Formerly Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
The first base grandstand:
First Base Grandstand, Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
First Base Grandstand, Kelly Automotive Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
Interior of the first base grandstand:
Pullman Park Grandstand, Butler, Pennsylvania
Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
View of right field with former American Bantam Car Company visible beyond the right field fence (in 1940, the American Bantam Car Company developed a Reconnaissance Car for the Army which was the prototype of the Jeep):
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
Industrial Buildings Beyond Right Field Wall, Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
View of center field:
Looking Through Grandstand Toward Center Field, Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
View of left field:
Pullman Park, Butler, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
Kelly Automotive Park includes several displays on the concourse behind home plate that celebrate the history of Pullman Park.
Pullman Park History Display at Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
Pullman Park History Display at Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
Pullman Park History Display at Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
Pullman Park History Display at Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
The ballpark is surrounded by the buildings and industry that date to the time of Pullman Park.
My Buddy’s Bar, With Pullman Park Mural, Across Street From Kelly Automotive Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
View of Houses Fronting Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
DuBrook Concrete Plant, Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
Although the original ballpark is long gone, Kelly Automotive Park is a wonderful place to watch a high school or college game.
PSAC Baseball Tournament Banner at Kelly Automotive Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
During summer months, Kelly Automotive Park is the home of the Butler Blue Sox of the collegiate wooden-bat rospect League.
Prospect League Standings Board at Kelly Automotive Park, Butler, Pennsylvania
And if you do see a game at Kelly Automotive Park, be sure to notice the outfield advertisement for Jones Turkey Farm posted on the right field fence. It certainly gives new meaning to the term “fowl ball.”
Fowl Ball! East Stroudsburg University Right Fielder Christian Rishel Playing Under the Watchful Eye of a Jones Turkey Farm Turkey, Kelly Automotive Ballpark, Butler, Pennsylvania
Engel Stadium is located at 1130 East Third Street in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The ballpark is the former home of the Chattanooga Lookouts.
Historic Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Engel Stadium was built on the site of the Lookout’s prior home, Andrew Field. In 1910, the franchise moved from Little Rock Arkansas to Chattanooga and in 1911 began playing their home games at Andrews Field.
Center Field, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Center Field, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
In 1929, Clark Griffith purchased the Lookouts and Andrews Field from Sammy Strang, a former major league player and Chattanooga native. Griffith hired former major league pitcher and scout Joe Engel to run the franchise and oversee construction of the new ballpark.
Engel Stadium Postcard, Home of the “Lookouts” Chattanooga, Tennessee
When the ballpark opened in 1930 it was named Engel Stadium in recognition of Engel’s efforts. As a player with the Washington Senators, Engel roomed with teammate Walter Johnson and as a scout was responsible for discovering future Hall of Famers Goose Goslin, Joe Cronin, and Bucky Harris. Engel remained with the Lookouts until the early 1960s, becoming in the process one of the most successful and colorful promoters in the game.
Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
When Engel Stadium opened in 1930, it was considered one of the finest minor league ballparks in the country.
Left Field Fence, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
The ballpark is situated next to Southern Railway’s Citico Yard (now known as Norfolk Southern Railway Debutts Yard).
View of Norfolk Southern Railway’s Debutts Yard, Engel Stadium (right), and Lookout Mountain (left), Chattanooga, Tennessee
View of Grandstand Roof From East 3rd Street Bridge Over Norfolk Southern Railway Yard
Engel Stadium also is located adjacent to the University of Tennessee College of Medicine’s Erlanger Hospital and Chattanooga’s historic Fort Hood neighborhood.
Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee, View From Erlanger Hospital at Central Avenue
Engel Stadium’s all brick construction is reminiscent of Bosse Field in Evansville, Indiana. Like Bosse Field, Engel Stadium was used as the backdrop for a major motion pictures. In 2012, the movie 42 was filmed at Engel Field. In 1991, A League Of Their Own was filed at Bosse Field.
Exterior, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
The Chattanooga Lookouts played their home games at Engel Field from 1930 through 1961 as member of the Southern Association. Chattanooga did not field a team in 1962, but the Lookouts returned in 1963 and played one season in the South Atlantic (“Sally”) League.
Exterior, Third Base Grandstand, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
From 1964 to 1965 the Lookouts were members of the Southern League. The team departed after the 1965 season and from 1966 to 1975 Chattanooga did not field a team. The Lookouts returned to Engel Stadium in 1976, once again as a member of the Southern League and continued to play at Engel Stadium through the 1999 season.
Exterior, First Base Grandstand, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
In the 1940s the minor league Negro Southern Association Chattanooga Choo-Choos played their home games at Engel Stadium. A young Willie Mays, still in high school, reportedly played for the Choo-Choos in 1945 and 1946 as an unsigned player. In 1947, he officially started his professional career with the Birmingham Black Barrons who played their home games at Rickwood Field. In 1926 and 1927, when the ballpark was still known as Andrews Field, the Negro Southern League Chattanooga White Sox played their home games at Andrews Field. Satchel Paige made his professional minor league Negro League debut at Andrews Field in April 1926. In 1927 Paige’s contract was sold to the Black Barrons.
Gated Entrance Along Third Base, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
The following Major League teams were affiliated with the Lookouts during the time that Engel Stadium fielded a professional, affiliated team: the Washington Senators from 1932 to 1959, the Philadelphia Phillies from 1960 to 1961, and 1963 to 1965, the Oakland Athletics from 1976 to 1977, the Cleveland Indians from 1978 to 1982, the Seattle Mariners from 1983 to 1986, and the Cincinnati Reds from 1987 to 1999.
Scoreboard, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
In 2000, the Chattanooga Lookouts moved to brand new AT&T Field located at 201 Power Alley in Chattanooga, just one and one half mile northwest of Engel Stadium.
AT&T Ballpark, Chattanooga, Tennessee, Home of the Chattanooga Lookouts
AT&T Field, Chattanooga, Tennessee, Home of the Chattanooga Lookouts
In 2009 Engel Stadium was added to the National Register of Historic Places. That same year, the Engel Stadium Foundation was established to help renovate and restore Engel Stadium. If you are interested in making a donation to the Foundation, contact them here.
Right Field Looking Toward Center Field, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Although the stadium received some repairs in 2012 as part of its role in the movie 42, there is still much that needs to be done to restore Engel Stadium and help preserve it for future generations of baseball fans to use and appreciate.
View of Grandstand From Left Field Corner, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
In April 2015 the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, and the Engel Stadium Foundation, announced a partnership wherein Engel stadium will be renovated and converted to an Intramural Complex for students at the University. The details of the proposed renovation have yet to be determined.
Light Stanchion, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Although the ballpark will undergo some changes to accommodate its new purpose, the good news is that Engel Stadium will not become just another lost ballpark.
Exterior of Right Field Fence, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
If you have never visited Engel Stadium and are interested in seeing the ballpark before its transformation, now is the time to do so.
Exterior of Right Field Fence, Engel Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Old ballparks such as Engel Stadium have a certain, worn charm that often times is wiped away when the ballpark is renovated or repurposed. Although I could not gain access to the ballpark in 2014 when I took these pictures, there was plenty to see just walking around the exterior of Engel Stadium. It is definitely worth the trip for any true fan of the game and is only a mile and a half from the Lookouts current home.
Les Murakami Stadium is located on the campus of the University of Hawaii, Manoa, at 1337 Lower Campus Road in Honolulu. Constructed in 1984 for use by the University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors baseball team, the ballpark originally was known as Rainbow Stadium.
Les Murakami Stadium, University of Hawaii
In 2002, Rainbow Stadium was renamed Les Murakami Stadium, in honor of the former University of Hawaii, Manoa, Head Coach Leslie S. Murakami. Murakami was the first baseball coach at UH Manoa, beginning in 1971 through 2000. Murakami also played for the University of Hawaii from 1955 to 1958.
Plaque Honoring Rededication of Rainbow Stadium as Les Murakami Stadium
Although primarily a college stadium, Les Murakami Stadium has a connection to professional baseball, and thus it’s inclusion on this website.
Student Section Sign, Exterior of Les Murakami Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii
In 1986 and 1987, the Pacific League Hawaii Islanders played some of their home games at Rainbow Stadium.
30th Anniversary of Les Murakami Stadium, 1984 to 2014
The Hawaii Islanders played at Honolulu Stadium from 1961 to 1975. From 1976 to 1985, the Islanders played their home games at Aloha Stadium. The final two season the Islanders played their home games at both Aloha Stadium and Rainbow Stadium.
Exterior of Les Murakami Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii
The entrance to the stadium is at field level, behind the home plate grandstand. The grandstand seating area is accessed on the second level (and above) of the stadium.
Clubhouse Entrance, Les Murakami Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii
Concourse, Les Murakami Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii
Les Murakami Stadium is just two miles northeast of Waikiki Beach on the southern end of the University of Hawaii.
Les Murakami Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii
The Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve provides a striking backdrop beyond the left field foul line.
Les Murakami Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii
The vast majority of the over 4,000 seats are covered by a double deck grandstand that stretches from first base to third base.
View of First Base Grandstand, Les Murakami Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii
View of Third Base Grandstand, Les Murakami Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii
Although Les Murakami Stadium’s history in the annals of minor league baseball may be barely a footnote, it is a ballpark where the professional game once was played.
Long Beach State Dirtbag Player at Les Muralami Stadium
Moreover, Les Murakami Stadium is the only remaining venue where professional baseball could be played in Honolulu. Although the Aloha Bowl still stands (Honolulu Stadium was demolished in 1976), because of changes made to the stadium seating in 2007, the Aloha Bowl no longer can be configured for baseball.
New Britain Stadium is located in Willow Brook Park at 230 John Karbonic Way in New Britain, Connecticut.
New Britain Stadium, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
The City of New Britain constructed the ballpark in 1995 as a replacement for Beehive Field, which the city had built only 12 years earlier in 1982 to entice a professional minor league team (the Bristol Red Sox) to move to New Britain.
View of New Britain Stadium from Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
New Britain Stadium was built adjacent to Beehive Field, which remains at the site just a few hundred feet from New Britain Stadium and is used by the local high school and American Legion teams.
View of Beehive Field from New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
New Britain Stadium with Beehive Field in Backgrouind, New Britain, Connecticut
In 1996, the Eastern League Hardware City Rock Cats played their home games at New Britain Stadium. The name Hardware City is a reference to New Britain’s nickname (Stanley Black & Decker’s headquarters is located in New Britain).
Concourse, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
In 1997, the team changed its name to the New Britain Rock Cats.
New Britain Rock Cats Warming Up Prior to 2014 Game, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
From 1995 to 2014, New Britain was an affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. In 2015, the Rock Cats became an affiliate of the Colorado Rockies.
Concourse, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
In addition to holding approximately 2,000 more fans than its predecessor Beehive Field, New Britain Stadium is enclosed by a brick and concrete facade and stadium structure that is more in line with minor league ballparks built in the 1990s. New Britain Stadium, unlike Beehive Field, also has a covered concourse behind the grandstand with many more concessions options.
Stairway to Grandstand Seating, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
New Britain Stadium includes a small covered grandstand with a press box behind home plate.
Grandstand, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
Much of the ballpark seating is uncovered, metal bleachers.
Bleacher Seating New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
Bleacher Seating, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
The seats in the grandstand behind home plate and close to the field between first and third base, are made of plastic and have distinctive formed plastic arm rests.
Box Seats, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
With its placement in the middle of a public park, New Britain Stadium has a rural feel, especially looking out beyond the center field fence.
New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
New Britain Stadium’s scoreboard includes a video board. Mounted next to the scoreboard is a one story tall plastic milk bottle advertising Guida’s Dairy.
Jumbo Tron and Scoreboard, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
The milk advertisement is perhaps a nod to the famous Hood plastic milk bottle sign that once sat atop the right field roof at Fenway Park and later was moved to LeLacheur Park, home of the Lowell Spinners.
Giant Milk Bottle, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
With racing mascot mania reaching new heights in professional baseball, New Britain features a 7th inning fast food run of donuts and coffee sponsored by Dunkin’ Donuts.
Racing Donuts and Coffee! Caution Contents May Be Hot. New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
Although a tour of New Britain Stadium does not leave one with the impression that the ballpark needs replacement, the Rock Cats after only 20 seasons in the ballpark are leaving anyway, and 2015 will be the last season of professional, affiliated minor league baseball at New Britain Stadium
Beautiful Sunset, New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
In 2016, the Rock Cats are moving 14 miles up Highway 9 to a new ballpark located at Main Street and Trumbull Street in the “Downtown North” section of Hartford, Connecticut.
Route 9 Can Bee Seen Behind New Britain Stadium’s Right Field/First Base Foul Line. It Is the Road North Out of New Britain And Leads to The Rock Cats New Home in Hartford, Connecticut
The team’s move to Hartford is a bit of a homecoming for the city. From 1921 to 1952, Hartford hosted an Eastern League team at Bulkeley Stadium, once located on the southeast corner of Hanmer Street and George Street and currently the site of a nursing facility.
New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
Hopefully professional baseball will continue to be played at New Britain Stadium. The unaffiliated Atlantic League has expressed interest in placing a franchise in New Britain Stadium. Another option is the addition of a collegiate wooden bat league team at New Britain Stadium.
Thus, beginning in 2016, New Britain will have the distinction of having two former professional, affiliated ballparks standing in tact, side by side – presumably a claim that no other city in the United States can make.
Beehive Field is located in Willow Brook Park on John Karbonic Way in New Britain, Connecticut.
Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
The ballpark was constructed in 1982 by the City of New Britain in hopes of bringing a professional baseball franchise to the city. Joe Buzas, the legendary minor league baseball owner moved his team, the Bristol Red Sox, to New Britain in 1983.
Plaque Honoring Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
Beehive Field’s name is a reference to the City of New Britain seal, which includes a depiction of bees swarming a beehive (thanks to alert reader Ed!). The city’s motto is “Industry fills the hive and enjoys the honey.”
Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticutt
Built on top of what once was a swamp, when it opened Beehive Field had one of the most expansive outfields in minor league baseball. The large outfield and thick air (because of the former swamp) tagged the ballpark as a pitcher’s park.
Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
Although perhaps considered “modern” when it was built in the early 1980s because it was new, the simplicity of the design more resembled a 1930’s era ballpark.
Under the Third Base Grandstand, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
The stadium seating is constructed of metal risers that wrap around from the infield, with no exterior wall to close in the structure.
Stairs to the Grandstand, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
From 1983 to 1994, it was the home of the Eastern League New Britain Red Sox.
Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
One of the most distinctive features of Beehive Field is that it is located just a few hundred feet from New Britain Stadium, the ballpark that replaced Beehive Field in 1996 as the home of professional baseball in New Britain.
Beehive Field, with New Britain Stadium in Background, New Britain, Connecticut
By the early 1990s, with the Boston Red Sox threatening to leave New Britain unless the city built the franchise a new ballpark, New Britain began construction of a new ballpark next to Beehive Field. The Red Sox affiliate departed after the 1994 season anyway.
Grandstand, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
In 1995, Buzas affiliated his New Britain team with the Minnesota Twins and the New Britain Rock Cats played their first season at Beehive Field (known then as the Hardware City Rock Cats).
First Base Dugout, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
Third Base Dugout, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
Beehive Field remains at the site today. The left field bleachers of New Britain’s current ballpark provide an excellent panoramic view of Beehive Field.
View of Beehive Stadium from New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
Light Stanchion, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
Beehive Field is currently the home field of the New Britain High School Canes varsity baseball team.
Scoreboard, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
Although the ballpark is in need of repair, it remains an important part of the New Britain community and, in 2015, additional funds were provided by the city to upgrade the facility to make it ADA compliant.
First Base Bleachers, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
The New Britain Rock Cats currently are playing their 20th season at New Britain Stadium.
New Britain Stadium, Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
The team has taken the unusual approach of celebrating their 20th anniversary by making it their last season in New Britain Stadium.
View of New Britain Stadium from Beehive Field, New Britain, Connecticut
Beginning in 2017, the Rock Cats will play their home games in Hartford, Connecticut, as the Hartford Yard Goats. Yes, the Yard Goats.
New Britain Stadium, New Britain, Connecticut
Hopefully professional baseball will continue to be played in New Britain Stadium, thereby allowing the high school to play its games at Beehive Field. The Atlantic League has expressed interest in placing a franchise in New Britain Stadium. Another option is the addition of a collegiate wooden bat league team at New Britain Stadium. Regardless, New Britain, beginning in 2016, will have the distinction of having two former professional, affiliated ballparks standing in tact, side by side – presumably a claim that no other city in the United States can make.
Salem Kiwanis Field is located at 731 Indiana Street in Salem, Virginia. Opened in 1932, the ballpark was constructed by the City of Salem for use as a local town and high school baseball and football field. Originally known as Salem Municipal Stadium, the ballpark’s name was changed to Salem Kiwanis Field at some point subsequent to 1995.
Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
From 1939 to 1942, the Virginia League Salem-Roanoke Friends played their home games at Salem Municipal Stadium. In 1943, the team moved to Maher Field in Roanoke. Professional baseball returned briefly to Salem in 1946, when the Blue Ridge League Salem Friends played at Salem Municipal Stadium for part of that season.
Exterior of Outfield Wall, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
In 1955, the unaffiliated Appalachian League Salem Rebels began playing at Salem Municipal Stadium. The team included future Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda, who signed with the New York Giants as an amateur free agent that same year. Salem’s professional team affiliated with several different Major League franchises over the years, beginning with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1957. The Pirates organization departed after the 1959 season, but returned from 1964 to 1980, and from 1987 to 1994. From 1960 to 1963 Salem was an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. From 1981 to 1983, Salem was affiliate of the San Diego Padres, and from 1984 to 1986, Salem was an affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
The Rebels joined the Carolina League in 1968. In 1972, the team changed its name to the Salem Pirates. From 1981 to 1986, the team was known as the Salem Redbirds. From 1987 to 1994, the team was known as the Salem Buccaneers. In 1995, the team switched affiliations to the Colorado Rockies and became the Salem Avalanche.
Scoreboard, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
View From First Base Bleachers, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
Situated in the Roanoke Valley between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains, the ballpark offers commanding views of the surrounding mountain.
Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
Salem Kiwanis Field is an earthen ballpark, with grandstand and concrete bleacher seating set into the side of a hill that runs along the back of the ballpark.
Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
As such, there is no traditional stadium structure located behind the ballpark seating bowl.
Grandstand Roof, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
Grandstand Roof, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
A later addition to the ballpark was the construction of a press box behind the back of the home plate grandstand.
Press Box, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
The covered grandstand includes wooden seats dating back to at least the 1950s.
Wood Seats, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
Wood Seats, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
Concrete bleachers are located on either side of the covered grandstand. Because the ballpark was designed and used for both baseball and football, the concrete bleachers do not curve around the infield as they would in a baseball-only ballpark.
First Base Concrete Bleachers, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
The dugouts, like the surrounding seating area, are set into the side of the hill.
View of Field and First Base Dugout From First Base Bleachers, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
The bullpens are located along the first and third base foul lines, out of play.
Bullpen, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
The concrete block concession stand located behind the first base bleachers harkens back to an earlier era when the game itself was the main attraction.
Concession Stand, Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
Salem Kiwanis Field currently is the home of the University of Roanoke Maroons baseball team and the Salem High School Spartans. The local American Legion team, as well as the Roanoke Rails of the Carolina-Virginia Collegiate League, play their home games at Salem Kiwanis Field.
Salem Kiwanis Field, Home of the Salem High School Spartans, Salem, Virginia
The Salem Avalanche played a portion of the 1995 season at Salem Municipal Stadium while construction was being completed on a new ballpark located just a half mile east of Salem Municipal Stadium.
Salem Kiwanis Field, Formerly Salem Municipal Stadium, Salem, Virginia
On August 7, 1995, the Avalanche played their first game at Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium, and professional baseball at the old ballpark departed, presumably forever.
Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium, Salem, Virginia
Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium, Salem, Virginia
Fortunately for fans of old-time ballparks, Salem Kiwanis Field remains an important part of the Salem community, hosting both college, high school, and summer collegiate baseball. Hopefully Salem’s continued use of the ballpark will help insure that it does not any time soon become just another lost ballpark.
Russell E. Diethrick, Jr. Park is located at 485 Falconer Street in Jamestown, New York.
Jamestown Municipal Stadium/Russell E. Diethrick, Jr. Park, Jamestown, New York
Constructed in 1940 through a public/private partnership, the ballpark is owned and maintained by the City of Jamestown.
Jamestown Municipal Stadium Postcard (Curteich-Chicago Art Colortone, Weakley-Olson, Jamestown NY)
When it opened in 1941, the ballpark was known as Jamestown Municipal Stadium and was the home of the Pennsylvania-Ontario-New York League (PONY) Jamestown Falcons.
Plaque Honoring 1941 Dedication as Jamestown Municipal Stadium, Jamestown, New York
In the early 1960s, Jamestown Community College built a new campus adjacent to Jamestown Municipal Stadium (just beyond left field) and the college baseball team began playing their home games at the ballpark. In the mid 1960s the ballpark was known locally as College Stadium and, in 1984, was renovated as College Stadium. Jamestown Community College’s baseball and softball teams still play their home games there.
Plaque Honoring 1984 Stadium Renovation of College Stadium, Jamestown, New York
In 1997, the name was changed to Russell E. Diethrick, Jr. Park in honor of a local Jamestown resident who had dedicate his life to both professional and amateur baseball in Jamestown.
Russell E. Diethrick, Jr. Park, Jamestown, New York, Former Home of the Jamestown Jammers
Plaque Honoring 1997 Ballpark Rededication as Russell E. Diethrick, Jr. Park , Jamestown, New York
As with every professional ballpark that reaches a certain advanced age, there is an abundance of historic plaques and markers at Diethrick Park.
Plaques Honoring History of Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
The ballpark was home to the PONY League Jamestown Falcons from 1941 to 1956. In 1957 the league’s name was changed to the New York-Penn League. The Falcons continued play in the New York-Penn League, but only for half a season when the team ceased operation. Professional baseball returned to Jamestown Municipal Stadium in 1961 with the arrival of the New York-Penn League Jamestown Tigers, who departed after the 1965 season. The ballpark continued its affiliation with the New York-Penn League with the Jamestown Dodgers in 1966, the Jamestown Braves in 1967, the Jamestown Falcons from 1968 to 1972, the Jamestown Expos in 1973, and from 1977 to 1993, and the Jamestown Jammers from 1994 to 2014.
View from the First Base Bleachers, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
Since 1941, the team has affiliated with the following major league organizations: the Detroit Tigers from 1941 to 1942, from 1944 to 1956, from 1961 to 1965, and from 1994 to 1998, the St. Louis Cardinals in 1943, the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1957 and from 2013 to 2014, the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1966, the Atlanta Braves in 1967 and from 199 to 2001, the Boston Red Sox from 1968 to 1970, the Montreal Expos from 1971 to 1973, and from 1977 to 1993, and the Florida Marlins from 2002 to 2012.
View From Behind Home Plate, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
Although Diethrick Park has undergone several renovations during its 75 years in existence, the ballpark maintains much of its classic ballpark charm.
Grandstand, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
The all-brick exterior hearkens back to an earlier era.
Grandstand Exterior – Behind Home Plate, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
Grandstand Exterior, First Base Side, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
The bullpens are located along the first and third base lines, with the visiting team located just past the first base bleachers and the home team just past the third base bleachers.
Visitor’s Bullpen, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
Home Team Bullpen, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
The light stanchions are original to the ballpark, installed when Diethrick Park opened in 1941.
Right Field at Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
Light Stanchion, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
The electronic scoreboard is old-school as well. Who needs a Jumbo Tron at a minor league game?
Scoreboard, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
In 2014, Diethrick Park was the second oldest ballpark in the New York-Penn League. Despite of, and because of, its age, it is a wonderful place to watch a baseball game.
Night Game, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
The people of Jamestown, New York, are proud of their association with the game of baseball. Organized baseball has been played in Jamestown since the Civil War.
Plaque Honoring the History of Professional Baseball in Jamestown, New York
The responsible for helping run Jamestown baseball at Diethrick Park are friendly and ready to assist.
Get Your Program, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
A Great Place to Buy Beer Under the Grandstand, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
Jamestown Jammers Team Store, Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
In 2014, the Jamestown Jamers played their last season of baseball at Diethrick Park. The franchise relocated in 2015 to Morgantown, West Virginia, where they will play as the Black Bears in a new facility shared with the University of West Virginia.
Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
Although professional baseball may have left Jamestown, starting in 2015 Diethrick Park will be the home of the Prospect League (college wooden bat league) Jamestown Jamers, who will retain the name of the former professional team.
Diethrick Park, Jamestown, New York
Luckily for the City of Jamestown, Diethrick Park will not anytime soon be joining the ranks of another lost ballpark. If you are a fan of old-time baseball stadiums, and find yourself in the Jamestown area during the spring college season or the summer wooden bat season, be sure to take in a game at old Jamestown Municipal Stadium. The citizens of Jamestown will be glad to welcome you to their gem of a ballpark.
Bush Stadium was located at 1510 Stadium Way, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Constructed in 1931, the ballpark originally was known as Perry Stadium, named after the family responsible for its construction.
Entrance to Former Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
In 1942, the ballpark was renamed Victory Field in recognition of the country’s entrance into World War II. In 1967 the City of Indianapolis purchased the ballpark and renamed it Owen J. Bush Stadium, in honor of Donnie Bush, a part owner and President of the Indianapolis Indians, as well as a former major league player and Indianapolis native.
The ballpark was constructed by Osborne Engineering, an architectural and engineering firm responsible for designing many major league ballparks. In 1995, because of its cultural significance and its Art Deco design, Bush Stadium was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Stadium Flats, Bush Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana
The ballpark was the home of the American Association Indianapolis Indians from 1931 to 1962, and from 1969 to 1996. In 1963, the ballpark was the home of the International League Indianapolis Indians, and from 1964 to 1986 it was the home of the Pacific Coast League Indianapolis Indians.
View of Former Bush Stadium Infield and Grandstand, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
Bush Stadium also hosted many seasons of Negro Leagues baseball. According to Philip Lowery’s Green Cathedrals, the ballpark was the home field of the Negro National League Indianapolis ABC’s in 1931, the Negro Southern League Indianapolis ABC’s in 1932, the Negro American League (NAL) Indianapolis Athletics in 1937, the NAL in 1938 and 1939, the NAL Indianapolis Crawfords in 1940, the NAL Indianapolis Clowns in 1944 and 1946 to 1955, and the NAL Kansas City Monarchs from 1957 to 1961. In 1933 the ballpark was used as a neutral site for the Negro National League Chicago Cole’s American Giants and in 1943 the Washington-Homestead Grays and the NAL Birmingham Black Barons played game five of the Negro World Series at the stadium.
Former Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
In 1987, Bush Stadium was used as the backdrop for the filming of the movie Eight Men Out.
Cast of the movie Eight Men Out (Photo by Bob Marsak, Still Photographer on Eight Men Out)
Bush Stadium Postcard (designed and published by Vic Pallos)
In July 1996, the Indians moved two miles southeast to Victory Field, located in White River State Park near downtown Indianapolis.
Victory Field , Indianapolis, Indiana, Home of the Indianapolis Indians
Like Bush Stadium in it’s day, Victory Field is considered one of the finest minor league ballparks in the country.
Victory Field , Indianapolis, Indiana, Home of the Indianapolis Indians
Like so many abandoned ballparks before it, once Bush Stadium’s major tenant departed, the future did not look bright. For a time Bush Stadium was transformed into a midget car dirt track raceway and later a parking lot for the United States Government’s Cash for Clunkers program.
View of Former Grandstand, Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
Luckily for fans of the game, the City of Indianapolis, and some concerned citizens, spearheaded an effort to save the ballpark from demolition through re-purposing.
Signs Located at Former Bush Stadium, Advertising Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
In 2011, the City embarked upon a project to turn the former ballpark into an apartment complex, based upon an idea originally proposed by Indiana Landmarks Chairperson John Watson, who ultimately brought the project to fruition.
Sign at Former Bush Stadium, Advertising Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
In 2013, Stadium Lofts opened, followed by Stadium Flats, constructed by Core Redevelopment.
The Next Phase – Sign Showing Planned Development of Former Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
Portions of the stadium’s exterior brick and limestone wall, and the grandstand wood roof, have been preserved, along with light stanchions and a portion of the outfield wall.
Exterior of Center Field Wall at Former Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
Exterior of Outfield Wall, Former Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
Light Stanchions, Former Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
In the former center field corner is slated to be constructed a building with office, medical, and commercial space.
Interior of Outfield Wall, Right Field Corner, at Former Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
Bush Stadium Postcard (American GeoGraphics, Bloomington, Indiana)
Also preserved is the original infield area and a portion of the outfield. The base paths are delineated with a red stamped-concrete walkway.
View of Former Grandstand, from Left Field Corner, Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
Although Bush Stadium,as it once was may now be a lost ballpark, a distinct portion of it lives on.
Scoreboard at Former Bush Stadium, Now Stadium Flats, Indianapolis, Indiana
Kudos to the City of Indianapolis for not simply bulldozing the historic ballpark and instead coming up with a use that celebrates the stadium’s history and preserves a significant portion of the ballpark fans of the game to enjoy – or to live in (apartments range in cost from between $600 and $1,300 a month).
Knights Stadium was located at 2280 Deerfield Drive in Fort Mill, South Carolina. The ballpark was the home of the Southern League Charlotte Knights from 1990 to 1992, and the International League Charlotte Knights from 1993 to 2013. During those years, the Knights were an affiliate of the Chicago Cubs (1990 to 1992), the Cleveland Indians (1993 to 1994), the Florida Marlins (1995 to 1998), and the Chicago White Sox (1999 to 2013).
Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina, Former Home of the Charlotte Knights
Just as the NFL Washington Redskins play their home games in Maryland and the NFL New York Giants play their home games in New Jersey, the Charlotte Knights played their home games not in North Carolina, but across the state line in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
Entrance to Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
Originally known as Knights Castle, the ballpark was constructed in 1989 by then-Charlotte Knights owner George Shinn. Shinn at that time also was owner of the NBA Charlotte Hornets (now the New Orleans Pelicans).
Exterior of First Base Grandstand, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
At the time the ballpark opened, Shinn, and others, had hopes of luring a Major League Baseball franchise to Charlotte. As such, the stadium was designed to MLB specifications. Although the ballpark held only 10,000 when it first opened, the plan was to expand seating to 40,000 should Charlotte land a major league team.
Ticket Windows, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
The need for an adequate area in which to expand is one reason the ballpark was located along I-77 in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
Entrance to Administrative Offices, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
The ballpark opened just two years before the advent of the retro ballpark boom ushered in by Orioles Park at Camden Yards in 1992. The ballpark’s exterior reflected this fact, with a rather uninspired facade constructed largely of gray concrete bricks.
Gate B, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
Welcome Sign, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
Because the ballpark was constructed in hopes of expanding to 40,000 seats, the stadium concourse was considerably larger than typical minor league ballparks of that era.
Concourse Signage, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
Concourse, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
The concourse along the left field line included a large picnic pavilion which could be converted to additional grandstand seating in the event Charlotte was awarded a major league team.
View of Grandstand from Left Field Party Deck, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
The grandstand seating along first and third base included rows of multi colored plastic seats, perhaps a nod to the textile mills that once were a large part of the local economy.
Third Base Grandstand, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
The press box behind home plate included the Home Run Cafe on the second level.
View from Right Field Corner, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
Because of the ballpark’s location along I-77, and the hopes of expansion, Knights Stadium was surrounded by open fields and an overabundance of parking.
Outfield Wall, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
Storage Shed Located Beyond Outfield Fence, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
After many years of debate, and once it became clear that Major League Baseball was not moving to Charlotte, a decision was made to construct a new ballpark in Charlotte Center City (sometimes referred to as Uptown Charlotte).
Scoreboard, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
The Knights played their last game at Knight Stadium in 2013, and in 2014 moved to brand new BB&T Ballpark, located 15 miles northeast of their former home.
Knight Stadium Offices Have Moved, Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
The contrast between Knights Stadium and BB&T Ballpark is remarkable, both in design and location.
Entrance to BB&T Ballpark, Home of the Charlotte Knights, Charlotte, North Carolina
There can be little debate that BB&T Ballpark, located in the heart of Charlotte, is one of the finest minor league ballparks in the country. In 2014, the team averaged 9,000 fans a game.
BB&T Ballpark, Home of the Charlotte Knights, Charlotte, North Carolina
In 2014, York County, which owned the ballpark, sold Knights Stadium and the 32 acres that made up the stadium property, to a Charlotte-based Cato Corporation. In 2015, Knight Stadium was demolished. Although it is unknown whether Cato Corporation’s planned distribution center will include any tribute to the lost ballpark, one reminder of Knights Stadium still stands. Along I-77, near the exit to Knights Stadium’s former site, is a water tower in the shape of a baseball.
Water Tower Near Former Site of Knights Stadium, Fort Mill, South Carolina
After only 24 seasons in existence, Knights stadium is now just another lost ballpark.
Bosse Field is located at 23 Don Mattingly Way in Evansville, Indiana (Don Mattingly was born in Evansville, Indiana, and attended Reitz Memorial High School). The ballpark is owned and maintained by the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation, a public school corporation serving Evansville, Indiana, and Vanderburgh County.
Front Entrance to Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
The ballpark was constructed in 1915 with the backing of Evansville’s then-Mayor Benjamin Bosse.
Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana, Under Construction, 1915
The City of Evansville rewarded the mayor’s efforts by naming the field after him.
Plaque Honoring Construction of Bosse Field, in 1915, Evansville, Indiana
That same season, Bosse Field began hosting professional baseball. In 1915 the ballpark was the home of the Central League Evansville River Rats.
Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana, Exterior of First Base Grandstand
Bosse Field was renovated in 1930 and again in 1958. Both renovations are marked with historical plaques located just inside the front gates.
Plaque Honoring 1930 Renovation of Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Plaque Honoring 1958 Renovation of Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
On June 17, 2015, Bosse Field will celebrate its 100th anniversary.
Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana, Exterior of Center Field Wall and Parking Lot
In the 100 years since Bosse Field first opened, professional baseball has been played at the ballpark for 70 of the 100 seasons.
Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana, Exterior of Left Field Wall and Third Base Grandstand
Bosse Field is the third oldest professional baseball stadium in continuous use in the United States. The two older professional ballparks in continuous use are Boston’s Fenway Park (opened 1912) and Chicago’s Wrigley Field (opened 1914 as Weeghman Park, home field of the Federal League Chicago Federals).
Exterior Third Base Grand Stand, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama, which opened in 1910, is recognized by the Historic American Building Survey as the country’s oldest surviving ballpark. However, professional baseball departed Rickwood after the 1987 season, with the exception of one day a year when the Birmingham Barons (beginning in 1996) return to Rickwood Field to play an official Southern League contest in what is known as the Rickwood Classic.
Exterior of First Base Grand Stand, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
The Evansville River Rats departed Bosse Field after the 1915 season and were replaced in 1916 by the Central League Evansville Evas, who played at Bosse Field through 1917. From 1919 to 1942, seven different Three-I League teams played at Bosse Field: the Evansville Black Sox in 1919, the Evansville Evas from 1920 to 1923, the Evansville Little Evas in 1924, the Evansville Pocketeers in 1925, the Evansville Hubs from 1926 to 1931, the Evansville Bees from 1938 to 1942, and the Evansville Braves from 1946 to 1957. In 1921 and 1922, Bosse Field was also home to the National Football League Evansville Crimson Giants.
Main Entrance to Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
With the arrival of the Evansville Bees in 1938, Boston’s National League franchise (then known as the Boston Bees) began an affiliation with Bosse Field that ran for the next two decades. After a three year absence during World War II, the Evansville Braves arrived at Bosse Field in 1946. When the Boston franchise moved to Milwaukee in 1953, the Braves continued to play in Evansville through the 1957 season.
Plaque Honoring Robert Coleman, Manager of the Evansville Braves, Circa 1954, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Because of World War II travel restrictions, from 1943 to 1945, the Detroit Tigers relocated their spring training home from Henley Field in Lakeland, Florida, to Bosse Field.
When the Evansville Braves departed after the 1957 season, Bosse Field was without a professional team until 1966 with the arrival of the Southern League Evansville White Sox, who played at Bosse Field through the 1968 season. The American Association Evansville Triplets called Bosse Field home from 1970 to 1984. The Triplets were affiliates of the Minnesota Twins in 1970, the Milwaukee Brewers from 1971 to 1973, and the Detroit Tigers from 1974 to 1984. At least three future Hall of Famers played minor league baseball for Evansville at Bosse Field, including Chuck Klein (Evansville Hubs in 1927), Hank Greenburg (Evansville Hubs in 1931), and Warren Spahn (Evansville Braves in 1941) .
Plaques Honoring History of Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Since 1995, the Evansville Otters of the Frontier League (Independent League, not affiliated with Major League Baseball) have played their home games at Bosse Field.
In addtiion to being one of the oldest ballparks in the country, it is also one of the most photogenic.
Panoramic Photo of Bosse Field Taken From Third Base Grandstand, Evansville, Indiana
The renovations the ballpark over the years have not destroyed in any way the 100 year old charm of Bosse Field.
Entrance to Grandstand Behind Third Base, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
It is a wonderful park to visit, both as a piece of American history, and as a place to watch a ballgame. The ballpark has been wonderfully maintained by the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation, as well as the Evansville Otters.
View of Bosse Field Taken from First Base Grandstand, Evansville, Indiana
View of Bosse Field From Third Base Grandstand, Evansville, Indiana
The seats located underneath the circular grandstand are made of wood. There is no plastic seating to be found anywhere within the grandstand.
View of First Base Grand Stand, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
The ballpark’s foul territory is expansive, a product of the age of its design. Prior to 1938, the foul area behind home plate was even larger. That year home plate was moved closer to the grandstand.
Third Base Dugout, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Third Base Dugout, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
The bullpens are located in expansive foul territory near the left field and right field corners.
Bullpen, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
The outfield dimensions are currently 315 feet down the left and right field corners and 415 feet to dead away center field, as set by an outfield fence that was installed in the early 1950s.
View of Bosse Field From Center Field, Evansville, Indiana
The outfield was once considerably larger, based upon the distance to original outfield wall, which is located some 30 to 40 beyond the current outfield fence.
Original Center Field Brick Wall, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
In 1991, Hollywood came to Bosse Field. The ballpark was used as the home field for the fictional Racine Belles in the movie A League of Their Own, which was released in 1992.
Press Box, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Remnants of that movie are scattered throughout Bosse Field in the form of painted advertising signs.
Racine Belles Signage, A League of Their Own, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
A League of Their Own Signage, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Additional remnants of the movie of include painted sectional and direction signage.
Section Directional SIgnage, A League of Their Own, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Bosse Field is a national treasurer. Although the ballpark is considerably less famous than its ballpark peers Fenway Park and Wrigley Field, it should be considered on equal footing for anyone interested in the history of ballparks in the United States.
Light Stanchion, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
For anyone who collects ballparks, Bosse Field is a must. Here’s hoping it will be around in 2115 to celebrate its 200th anniversary.
Exit from Right Field, Bosse Field, Evansville, Indiana
Greenlee Field was located at the intersection of Bedford Avenue and Junilla Street in the Hill District of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. From 1932 until 1938 it was the home of the Pittsburgh Crawfords of the Negro National League (the Crawfords joined the NNL in 1933).
Former Site of Greenlee Field, Intersection of Bedford Avenue and Junilla Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Greenlee Field is important not just because it was the home field of arguably the greatest Negro League team of all time – the 1935 Pittsburgh Crawfords – but because it was the first major league ballpark owned and operated by an African American. Gus Greenlee, the owner of the Crawfords, began construction of Greenlee Field in 1931, the same year he bought the team. Greenlee, a WWI veteran, wore many hats. In addition to owning the Crawfords, he was a boxing promoter, nightclub owner (the Crawford Grill), and a pioneer in Pittsburgh’s numbers racket (an illegal lottery).
Gus Greenlee, Owner of the Pittsburgh Crawfords (photographer unknown)
Crawford Grill No. 1, which Greenlee opened in 1930, was located at the intersection of Crawford Street and Wylie Avenue at 1401 Wylie Avenue. Crawford Grill No. 1 was destroyed by fire in 1951 and subsequently demolished to make way for the Civic Arena parking lot. Crawford Street was an important part of the Hill District and provided the inspiration for the team’s name, the Pittsburgh Crawfords. At the intersection of Crawford Street and Wylie Avenue also stood the Pittsburgh Bath House and Recreation Center, which was the original sponsor of the then semi-professional Pittsburgh Crawfords.
Civic Arena, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Circa 2006
The building in which Greenlee opened Crawford Grill No. 2, beginning in 1943, still stands in Pittsburgh’s Hill District at the intersection of Wylie Avenue and Elmore Street, just a half mile southwest of the Greenlee Field site.
Crawford Grill No. 2, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Historical Marker for Crawford Grill No. 2, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
In 1933, Greenlee founded the Negro National League and was instrumental in establishing the East-West Classic, an annual Negro League all-star game played in Chicago. During his tenure as owner of the Crawfords, which ceased after the 1938 season, Greenlee stocked his team with many future Hall of Fame players including Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, Oscar Charlestown, Judy Johnson and James T. “Cool Papa” Bell. The 1935 Crawfords, which included the above Hall of Famers, except Paige, is considered by many to be the greatest Negro League team ever to play the game.
Greenlee Field’s home plate, and the entrance to its grandstand, was located near the intersection Bedford Avenue and Junilla Street.
Entrance to Greenlee Field on Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Associated Press Photo)
After the 1938 season, Greenlee Field was demolished. Several images of the ballpark in its hey day can be viewed on line by searching “Greenlee Field” in the Teenie Harris Archives, Carnegie Museum of Art (Charles “Teenie” Harris was one of the founders of the semi-pro Pittsburgh Crawfords in 1926). Soon after demolition of Greenlee Field, the City of Pittsburgh began construction of the Bedford Dwellings housing project, which remains today at the ballpark’s former site.
Former Site of Greenlee FIeld, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Greenlee Field’s left field corner was located at what is now the intersection of Bedford Avenue and Barnett Way. At the time of Greenlee Field, Watt Street intersected Bedford Avenue where what is now Barnett Way.
Former Site of Left Field Corner, Greenlee Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Because Greenlee Field was built on a hill, the playing field was located several feet above street grade.
Former Site of Greenlee Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Looking from Left Field Corner Toward Home Plate
Just to the east of Watt Street (which no longer runs through the site) was the Pittsburgh Municipal Hospital, which can be seen in some of the photos of Greenlee Field available in the Teenie Harris Archives.
Team Picture of 1937 Homestead Grays Taken at Greenlee Field With Pittsburgh Hospital Visible Beyond Right Field Fence (photo from diversity.appstate.edu and courtesy of National Baseball Hall of Fame Cooperstown)
A park known as “The Garden of Hope” now sits at the former site of the hospital.
Greenlee Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Looking Toward Former Site of Center Field Corner from Left Field Corner
Greenlee Field’s former infield site is accessible from Chauncey Drive.
Chauncey Drive and Beford Avenue, Near Former Site of First Base, Greenlee Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Where Chauncey Drive makes a 45 degree turn is the approximate location of second base.
Intersection Where Chauncey Drive Makes a 45 Degree Turn, Bedford Dwellings, Near Former Site of Second Base, Greenlee Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Chauncey Drive, Looking West Toward Downtown Pittsburgh, Near Former Site of Second Base, Greenlee Field
Some buildings located along Bedford Avenue date back to Greenlee Field. Three row houses at the intersection of Junilla Street and Bedford Avenue are located across the street from what would have been the home plate grandstand.
Row Houses at 2500-04 Bedford Avenue, Dating Back to Time of Greenlee Field
Three townhouses located 2520-24 Bedford Avenue are located across the street from what was once left field.
2420-22 Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The townhouse on the corner of Bedford Avenue and Watt Street (Watt Street was relocated after demolition of Greenlee Field) is now a market. With a little imagination, it is not hard to picture what Greenlee Field might have looked like standing at the entrance to that market.
Just three blocks west of the former site of Greenlee Field, at the northwest corner of Somers Street and Bedford Avenue, was another Negro League ballpark, Ammons Field. The semi-pro Pittsburgh Crawfords played at this field, beginning in about 1926, as did the professional level Pittsburgh Crawfords and Homestead Grays beginning in 1930. Ammons Field also is notable as the field where Josh Gibson first played baseball for the semi-pro Crawfords in 1928. For more information about Ammons Field and the history of the Crawfords, see James Bankes’ fine book The Pittsburgh Crawfords.
Historical Marker for Ammons Field
The City of Pittsburgh has paid tribute to Ammons Field and Josh Gibson with a historical marker. Located behind the Ammons Recreation Center at Bedford Avenue and Kirkpatrick Street is a youth baseball field dedicated to Josh Gibson.
Josh Gibson Field, Ammons Recreation Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
As noted in the informative website Agatetype.typepad.com, the actual location of the original Ammons Field utilized by the Crawfords was one block east of Josh Gibson Field, the current park. The former location of the modest grandstand and home plate is visible on the bluff beyond Josh Gibson Field’s left field fence.
Josh Gibson Field Looking Toward Former Site of Ammons Field Grandstand and Home Plate at Somers Drive and Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Former Site of Ammons Field Grandstand and Home Plate, Somers Drive and Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh’s Hill District, and the former site of Greenlee Field, is located just two miles west of the former site of Forbes Field, and one and a half miles southwest of the former sites of Three Rivers Stadium and Exposition Park, as well as the Pirates current ballpark, PNC Park. If you are a fan of the game and the history of the game, and you find yourself in Pittsburgh on a baseball trip, a stop at the former site of Greenlee Field and Ammons Field, is a must.
West Field is located at the northwest intersection of West Street and Orchard Street, directly behind the Munhall Borough Police Station (1900 West Street), in Munhall, PA. The Borough of Munhall is located seven miles southeast of Pittsburgh, just south of Homestead, Pennsylvania.
West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
West Field was constructed in 1937 with funds from the Public Works Administration. Although it has functioned mainly as a town ball field for the Steel City School District’s baseball, softball, and football teams, West Field is notable because of its connection to Negro League baseball.
West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Beginning in the late 1930s up until at least 1948, West Field was used by the Homestead Grays for exhibition games, practices, spring training, and Negro National League contests when the Gray’s home ballpark Forbes Field was unavailable. During the early 1900s, the Grays played at another ball field in Munhall (known as the 19th Avenue Playground) located near the intersection of McClure Street and 19th Avenue. Some early 1900s newspaper accounts also refer to the Grays playing at another field in Munhall, also known as West Field, which was located in the Homestead Park section of Munhall near what is now Leigh Street (thanks Bob for the information).
West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
What is extraordinary about West Field is that, although it is deteriorating, the ballpark grandstand, seating bowl, and playing field remain relatively the same as they did when such stars as Buck Leonard and Josh Gibson played there.
View of Grandstand from Pitching Rubber, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Thus, West Field is one of the last few surviving Negro League ballparks.
West Field Grandstand Steps, Munhall, Pennsylvania
According to Trib Total Media, beginning in April 2015, the ballpark is scheduled to undergo a five million dollar renovation, courtesy of a generous grant from the Campbell Educational and Community Foundation. Upgrades include new seating and a turf field that will accommodate football, baseball, and softball.
Infield and First Base Grandstand, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
It is uncertain just how much of West Field’s historic grandstand and seating bowl will be preserved as part of the renovation, although Trib Reporter Mike Divittorio has stated that the Borough will renovate the lockers in the grandstand and add new seating on top of the existing benches. Given West Field’s important history, and its status as one of the last surviving Negro League ballparks, care should be taken to preserve the structure for future generations to appreciate.
First Base Grandstand, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
According to a 2006 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette interview of Elijah “Lucky” Miller, a former Homestead Grays bat boy, the Grays used the dugout located along the third base side of the grandstand.
Third Base Dugout, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Next to the third base dugout are the entrances to the players locker rooms.
Entrance to Locker Rooms, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Entrance to Home Player Locker Room, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
The locker rooms were located at the end of a tunnel that ran underneath the grandstand.
Tunnel Under Grandstand Leading to Player Locker Room, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Like the Gray’s home dugout, the visiting team dugout – once used by such teams as the New York Black Yankees – remains at the site, frozen in time.
First Base Dugout, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
First Base Dugout, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
The view from the dugout is largely unchanged from the days when the ballpark hosted Negro League baseball.
View of Field From First Base Dugout, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Out beyond left and center field is the Munhall Municipal Building, which was constructed between 1941 and 1945 (completion was delayed because necessary building materials were in short supply during World War II). The building currently houses the Munhall Borough Police Department.
The Munhall Municipal Building Located Beyond Center Field, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
The view from right field looking toward the infield and the grandstand is like looking back in time.
View of Grandstand from Right Field, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
West Field Circa 1955 (photo from cover of 3rd Annual Prep League World Series program, August 1955)
Having hosted countless sporting events for almost 80 years, the stadium is in desperate need of repair. The concrete that supports the first base grandstand seating is crumbling and presumably much of it would need to be removed and replaced. Renovation plans call for installing seating for 800 in the ballpark, a significant decrease for a stadium which currently holds 3,000.
First Base Grandstand, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
First Base Grandstand, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
At the top of the first base grandstand is a walk way that leads around to the top of the third base grandstand. If you are planning to visit the ballpark prior to its renovation, this walkway provides an excellent panoramic view of West Field.
Walkway Along Back of First Base Grandstand, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Walkway Along Back of Third Base Grandstand, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
West Field is located on property also used by the Borough of Munhall for storage and repair of its service vehicles. The grandstand, and the entrance to it behind home plate, is accessible only by walking through a storage yard.
Grandstand, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Grandstand, West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
Hopefully the grandstand will be saved and restored. Although it currently is covered with graffiti and the grounds around it are littered with debris, the 1930s era structure itself appears to be in good shape and worthy of being preserved.
Entrance to West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
In 1987, the Borough of Munhall rededicated West Field as William W. Knight Memorial Park, in honor of the former major of Munhall.
Monument Honoring William W. Knight, Former Mayor of Munhall Borough
The Borough of Munhall has a unique opportunity to celebrate and preserve an important part of our country’s history. Updates will be posted here once more is known about the proposed renovations, and as they progress.
West Field, Munhall, Pennsylvania
In the meantime, here is a video walk around of the ballpark in it’s current condition.
