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.
Apparently, this was on CNN yesterday morning. They featured a truly amazing find. Above is a near mint conditioned 1893 Zimmer's Base Ball Game produced by McLoughlin Bros. found in a closet within William Waggoner's estate. See the video here. Approximately 10 are known to exist and this one was so nice the Hall of Fame came calling. They believe the game was originally purchased at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair.
