By opening Union Grounds in Brooklyn on May 15, 1862, William Cammeyer established himself as the inventtor of the enclosed ball park– the country’s first baseball “stadium.” The stadium was a natural progression in the development of a sport that was becoming increasingly professional. Stadium allowed for the exclusion of non-paying spectators and helped impress exceptional players, for whom teams were beginning to compete. Stadiums also attracted the attention of baseball promoters.When the National Association was established in 1871, owners of enclosed parks, including Cammeyer, had a distinct advantage in the competition for franchises.
Please note Heartland Institute’s phone number and address has changed since this document was created. The correct contact information is The Heartland Institute, 19 South LaSalle Street #903, Chicago, IL 60603; phone 312/377-4000; fax 312/377-5000; email [email protected].