Saturday, May 31, 2008

Back To Rickwood

Birmingham, Alabama still has something that not many cities have: Their old ballpark that dates back to the earliest part of the 1900s.

No, Rickwood Field is not the same as Fenway or Wrigley, but it comes pretty darn close albeit for a minor league ballpark. No, there is no Wrigleyville or crowds in the streets or shops nearby. This minor league ballpark has an aura all its own, and is neatly wrapped in green and black in its original neighborhood setting.

One can take in the sights surrounding the game being played, but for just one moment one should close their eyes and listen to the ballpark sounds. It really does take one back to an earlier day.

The Friends of Rickwood organization, led by amicable David Brewer, continues to maintain the best features of Rickwood. The annual Rickwood Classic allows fans and players to experience 'what it used to be like', and the event is always well-attended.