Blog Post 4: A Forgotten Treasure

A Forgotten Treasure

                Have you ever been somewhere that you could sense history surrounding it? It is such a neat feeling to stand in a place that holds wonderful, rich memories. Many people have visited the PHAC baseball field in Dennison, Ohio. They may have been there for a Little League baseball game or a Jr. Miss softball game. Whatever the case, not many people know just how special this baseball field truly is.

Cy Young

PHAC stands for Pan Handle Athletic Club. This field celebrated it’s 100^th birthday in 2017. The first game that took place at the PHAC was on May 16, 1917. If you visit the field today, you will see a baseball field, a concession- stand, and a couple of small bleachers. No part of the original stadium is standing today. However, it is said that when it first opened, the stadium could seat roughly 1,500 people.

Ty Cobb sliding into third base
in 1924

Many have heard of the great baseball player, Cy Young. Something that not many know is that this baseball legend played at the PHAC field right here in our county. How awesome is that? Ty Cobb and Whitey Moore also played here at this field! The PHAC had formed their own team. All players worked on the railroad at the time. They hosted teams from all over; One of those teams being the Pittsburg Pirates. The Pirates beat the PHAC 3-1 and the home-plate umpire was none other than Cy Young.

The PHAC was a popular sight until a railroad labor dispute that occurred in 1922. Since then, the field has not had such attraction as it did years prior.

It saddens me that such a place once was filled with so many people and much entertainment. Many baseball legends have played at this field and yet, many local people do not even know this. I feel that it is an important part of our county’s history that should be treasured forever. I hope to one day see the PHAC baseball field bring people together and be filled with as much excitement as it once did in the early 20^th century.