Where was Crosley Field located in Cincinnati? This question brings back memories of a bygone era when the Queen City was home to one of the most iconic ballparks in baseball history. Nestled in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, Crosley Field was a staple of the city’s sports culture for over five decades.
Crosley Field, originally known as Redland Field, was built in 1902 and was located at the corner of Central Avenue and Riverfront Plaza. The ballpark was named after its owner, Joseph N. Crosley, who purchased the land and financed the construction of the stadium. The venue became the home of the Cincinnati Reds, a team that was part of the National League, and it was where they played their home games from 1902 until 1970.
The ballpark was designed by architect Frank L. Fisher, who also designed the famous Fenway Park in Boston. Crosley Field was known for its distinctive features, such as the “Crosley Arch,” a large archway that served as the main entrance to the ballpark. The field itself was a cozy 35,000-seat venue that provided a great atmosphere for baseball games, especially during the hot summer nights in Cincinnati.
Throughout its history, Crosley Field witnessed numerous memorable moments in baseball. It was the site of many significant games, including the 1919 World Series, where the Reds faced off against the Chicago White Sox. The ballpark also hosted the first All-Star Game in 1933, and it was the home of the legendary baseball player, Joe DiMaggio, during his time with the Reds.
However, despite its rich history and contributions to the sport, Crosley Field faced several challenges. The ballpark’s aging infrastructure and the need for a more modern facility led to the decision to replace it. In 1970, the Reds moved to a new ballpark, Riverfront Stadium, which is now known as Great American Ball Park.
Today, the site of Crosley Field is occupied by the Paul Brown Stadium, home of the Cincinnati Bengals, the city’s NFL team. The area has been redeveloped as part of the larger riverfront park, which includes the Freedom Center and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. While the original Crosley Field may no longer exist, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced the magic of baseball at this historic ballpark in the heart of Cincinnati.
