Crosley Field was the home of the Cincinnati Reds from 1912 to 1970. Located at the corner of Findlay Street and Western Avenue, Crosley was one of the smallest ballparks in Major League Baseball, seating 29,488 during the final season in 1970. The playing field was well known by baseball fans and players alike for the distinctive 15-degree sloping terrace in left field. The outfield terrace was extended around to right field in the 1930's. The park went through a series of small renovations during its 58 years, most notably the addition of lighting for night baseball in 1935 and expanded upper deck seating over the right and left field pavilions in 1939. The lighting gave Crosley the unique distinction as the first ballpark in the Major Leagues to host evening games under the lights. A press box was added in 1936 along with various box seating additions over the years. The park received its distinctive white coat of paint in 1961.
Known as Redland Field during the early years, Crosley Field took the name after local businessman Powell Crosley after purchasing the club in 1934. Locals often referred to the park as "The Old Boomerang" due to the V-shaped layout of the grandstand geometry. Like many urban ballparks built in the early 20th century, Crosley Field and the surrounding neighborhood found itself victim to the automobile and urban blight in later years. The Reds left Crosley in June 1970 and the ballpark met the inevitable wrecking ball in April 1972.
The digital model recreates Crosley Field as it stood in 1959, with the natural brick appearance and surrounding buildings that were integral to the ballpark neighborhood.
The Neighborhood
For Most Of Its 58 Years, Crosley Field Was Nestled Into The Surrounding Neighborhood. Most Fans Entered The Ballpark Through The Main Office Building On Findlay Street Or At The Right Field Pavilion. The Bleacher Area Had A Separate Entrance Off Western Ave. Stroll Around The Block Including York Street And The Infamous Superior Laundry Building.
Sit Close To The Action In The Field Box Seats Behind Home Plate, Take In The View From The Sundeck In Right Field Or Find A Spot High In The Upper Deck As You Gaze At The Laundry Building In Left Field.