New Field of Dreams for Old World Wisconsin's Historic Base Ball Program

June 18, 2015
Eagle, Wis.--On July 11 at 1:30 pm, when the pitcher for Old World Wisconsin's historic base ball team throws out the first ball of the game, it will be on a new field, recently relocated to the regional history attraction's Yankee area. The move will provide for greater guest engagement and increased authenticity for the Eagle Diamonds team, which is based on the Waukesha Diamonds, originally organized in 1868. 
 
Dan Freas, the site's director and historic and contemporary baseball fan, provided insights on relocating the field: "It was the Yankees who brought base ball to Wisconsin, so it makes sense to locate the field in our Yankee area. The new location allowed us to expand the distance between the bases to 90 feet, which is more historically accurate than the field we've been playing on. Guests will note the well-defined base paths of the era, as shown in the image above. And the new location, near our main entrance, is easily accessible to our guests so more fans can enjoy the popular matches. This last point is important, as we're also offering more opportunities for guests to try the historic equipment for themselves when we host these family-friendly games."
 
On Saturday, July 11 at 1:30 pm the Eagle Diamonds will take on the Milwaukee Grays on the new field.
 
Admission:

Admission to the game is included with Old World Wisconsin admission. Adults (13-64) $19; children (4-12) $10 (children under 4 are free); senior citizens (65 and over) $16. Family Pass $50. Fees include an all-day tram transportation pass. Parking is free.

 
Upcoming Matches:

Games take place at 1:30 pm; Old World Wisconsin is open 10 am to 5 pm these dates.

  • July 11 vs. Milwaukee Grays
  • August 1 vs. Wade House Red Jackets
  • September 12 Exhibition Game: Guests vs. Eagle Diamonds
Details at http://wihist.org/2015BBschedule or by calling 262-594-6301.
 

Overview of Old World Wisconsin

Old World Wisconsin is located on Highway 67 just south of Eagle, Wisconsin in the Milwaukee/Chicago/Madison triangle. The 600-acre regional history attraction features interactive environments and immersive stories of 19th- and early 20th-century Midwestern immigrant farm and rural life. The operating season runs weekends in May, then daily Memorial Day through Labor Day, then Thursdays through Sundays September 10 through October 31. The museum offers hands-on activities, led by period-clad staff members, as they visit 10 working farmsteads, explore 12 heirloom gardens, meet heritage animal breeds, and try historic crafts and skills. For general information and details, visit www.oldworldwisconsin.org or call 262-594-6301.

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Contact:
Lisa McGovern, Communications Manager
lisa.mcgovern@wisconsinhistory.org, (262) 594-6304