Massachusetts Celebrates Fenway Park’s 100th Anniversary

(BOSTON – Thursday, April 19, 2012) Governor Deval Patrick, Senate President Therese Murray, House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo and Massachusetts legislators this week celebrated the 100th Anniversary of Fenway Park. A banner commemorating this milestone currently hangs on the front of the Massachusetts State House. Fenway Park hosted its first professional baseball game on April 20, 1912.

A banner celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Fenway Park hangs on the front of the Massachusetts State House. (Photo credit: Eric Haynes/Governor’s Office).

“I am proud to celebrate 100 years of great Red Sox baseball at Fenway Park,” said Governor Patrick. “Its rich history and character make it one of the finest and most beloved ball parks.” “Fenway Park is essential to the fabric of our landscape and our identity as New Englanders,” said Senate President Murray. “Fenway is not just the home of our beloved Red Sox; it has become the enduring and ultimate symbol of the American Pastime. I am proud to support and participate in this historic celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the world's greatest ballpark.”

“Looking back as we celebrate Fenway’s hundredth birthday, we remember how great a role the ballpark has played in shaping Boston’s history,” said House Speaker DeLeo. “For the past hundred years, Fenway Park has been a staple of Boston tourism and is home to so many precious moments, a curse reversed, and a timeless baseball club whose spirit will live on for many more years to come.” The Boston Red Sox will commemorate 100 years of history at Fenway Park with a large-scale pre-game ceremony Friday night before they play the New York Yankees. The Red Sox played the same team (then the New York Highlanders) on April 20, 1912. Both teams will wear 1912 throwback uniforms.