YANKEE STADIUM

Tonight is the All-Star Game and it will be played at Yankee Stadium. The game is bitter-sweet as it celebrates the last year of one of the great stadiums of the world. It has witnessed countless World Championships by the Yankees, majestic home-runs by Babe Ruth, the courageous speech of the dying Lou Gehrig, championship fights, the greatest football game ever played and even masses by Popes. But more importantly to me, was the many times that I visited the Stadium and the memories of my youth.

I first entered this "cathederal" in 1959 and like so many before and after me was awed by its size and beauty. The original stadium with its surrounding facade, mounuments in the field and incredible dimensions was a sight to behold. I will never forget going to the games with my parents and my brother and sister. When the games were over, fans were allowed onto the field and could exit out of the Yankee bullpen. My seven year old eyes couldn't believe that any man could hit one over the fence in center as it looked to be a mile away. When the renovation was done to the stadium after the 1973 season, it saddened me, but I grew to love the stadium again as  it still was magical. In October (hopefully late October), when the final game is played there, many fans will be saddened again. Sure, we'll grow to love the new stadium, but it will never replace the memories for many of their first game.

On the collectible side- there are many vintage items that show the old ball park. A model kit issued by Superior Plastics is a beautiful reminder of the beauty of Yankee Stadium.  Another favorite of collectors, is the board game titled "Challenge the Yankees". It was issued in the mid 60's and the box cover has a fantastic airial drawing of the stadium. Of course, the old wooden seats of Yankee Stadium are always a hot comodity.