Did you know that London’s Labatt Memorial Park is the world’s oldest baseball grounds? It’s true. With roots as far back as 1877, the baseball stadium was originally home to the London Tecumsehs. The park hosted bigtime games during the ‘golden age’ of baseball, and celebrated diversity within the game long before the colour barrier was broken in Major League Baseball.
Want to learn more? You can learn it all by participating in a Labatt Park Tour, which is back for a second year, courtesy of Tourism London.
“Many people aren’t aware of the incredible history of Labatt Memorial Park, and we look forward to sharing these stories with Londoners and many others this summer,” said Zanth Jarvis, the London’s Director of Sport Tourism. “We believe this has the opportunity to become another key attraction for the city by providing a unique, memorable and educational experience.”
Learn about the London Majors, London Tigers, and all the other teams that have called Labatt Park home over the years. There is something interesting for everyone to learn – not just fans of baseball. Guests will learn all about the role that the park has played – not only in the City of London, but in the game of baseball as a whole.
And don’t forget to bring a ball and glove to play catch on the same field that baseball legends have played on, including Ty Cobb, Satchell Paige, Fergie Jenkins, Deion Sanders and Jeff Bagwell.
The tour concludes inside the original 1937 Roy MacKay Clubhouse, where guests will see artifacts and displays from the mid 20th century. The tours were originally formed through a partnership with the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and the Beachville District Museum to promote Southwestern Ontario as a destination for baseball heritage.
“Labatt Memorial Park is a gem in our city, and we’re thrilled to be able to offer tours to showcase its incredible history,” said Jon-Paul McGonigle, Division Manager, Culture, Special Events and Sport Services.
Are you ready to visit beautiful Labatt Memorial Park and learn more about its rich history? For more information, including booking tours and more, visit www.labattparktours.com.
Submitted by Tourism London
