The greatest thing about having this blog is that every once in awhile I run into someone with a great collection that they want to share. Recently, I was contacted by Richard who is an avid collector of vintage photos and slides of the Los Angeles area. He has been kind enough to share some of his Baseball related pics with all of us.
Hopefully over the next few days I'll be able to post more photos, but for now, we'll start with a Coliseum teaser, a Wrigley pic and vintage shots of Anaheim Stadium. I know, I know! Anaheim Pics? I know those photos might disappoint the Dodger fan in all of us, but, from my perspective, I am fascinated by how much things have changed. Check out the pics below. The outfield area is bare without any seating- no bleachers to be found. The freeway backdrop we have come to expect is not there and the classic "Big A" sign is in its original spot. You can't tell me your not fascinated. Anyway, let's start with the photo parade.
Below is a pic from the 1958 season. This was the Dodgers first year at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
Below is a photo of a stadium long forgotten. It is of
Wrigley Field that was once located on the corners of Avalon Boulevard and 41st Street in South Los Angeles. The old PCL team Los Angeles Angels (and Hollywood Stars) played here, as well as, the California Angels in 1961 when they became a MLB expansion team. It was eventually torn down in the mid-'60's. The photo below features the New York Yankees during a exhibition game at Wrigley Field. Also, Richard tells me that the homes in the background are still there today.
Below is a collection of four photos featuring a vintage Anaheim Stadium- The Big A.
Above is from April 1966. Richard doesn't say exactly, but I suspect this photo is from the "Grand Opening" of
Anaheim Stadium on April 19, 1966. After all, what other day would you have a parade of people on the field like that? (I stand corrected. Opening day was against the White Sox and the game below and above is against the Twins. Most likely from
Friday April 22, 1966.) (
Rob from 6-4-2 comments that it is actually from the following day, Saturday, April 23, 1966.) Below is from the same day during the game against the Twins.
Below is a great shot of the color guard in the outfield during the National Anthem. The stadium is slowly filling up as the Southland tradition of arriving late has its roots to the very first game. Richard mentioned that traffic that day was horrendous as the parking lot was much smaller than it is today. In the background the hills are freshly carved and cars are packed in like sardines. The building with a Spanish tile roof in the distance is believed to be a old schoolhouse, a reminder of the community that once resided in Chavez Ravine.
It is minutes before the start of the game. Both teams have been introduced as they stand to gaze at the still growing crowd.
Play Ball! Johnny Podres is on the mound. The photograph below captures the very first pitch. 
The field above is in pretty poor shape as the grass appears to be still filling in. That winter was very wet and caused delays in the stadiums construction. They were almost forced to postpone the grand opening. 
The nearly 2 hour and 47 minute match is over as the first Dodger game in their new home has ended. Unfortunately, they lost to the Reds 6 to 3. Cincinnati left fielder Wally Post hit the first homerun at the stadium which also happened to be a 3 run game winner that put the Reds up front for good in the 7th inning.
