About Crosley Field
Crosley Field, originally known as Redland Field, served as the home of the Cincinnati Reds for nearly six decades. Located in the working-class West End of Cincinnati, the ballpark was a neighborhood gem where fans could watch games from the surrounding rooftops and hillsides.
The park made history on May 24, 1935, when it hosted the first night game in major-league history. President Franklin D. Roosevelt symbolically pressed a button in Washington, D.C. to turn on the lights, and the Reds defeated the Phillies 2-1 in front of over 20,000 amazed fans.
Crosley Field was also known for its distinctive terrace in left field — a gradual uphill slope that outfielders had to navigate, making routine fly balls an adventure. The park closed in 1970 when the Reds moved to Riverfront Stadium.
Fun facts
- The outfield terrace in left field rose about 15 feet, creating a literal uphill battle for outfielders.
- A laundry across the street displayed a sign: "Hit this sign and win a free suit."
- The 1937 flood submerged the field under 21 feet of water; Reds pitchers rowed a boat across the outfield.
- Named after industrialist Powel Crosley Jr., who bought the Reds in 1934.
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