GRIFFITH STADIUM PACKED FOR OPENING GAME OF BASEBALL SEASON
Washington, D.C. (JFK+50) On April 22, 1925, The Evening Star reports that "40,000 citizens of the Nation's Capital...headed for Griffith Stadium* (this afternoon) to see...a Washington baseball team make its debut in a national championship role."
This, the Star says, marks "the first time in history" that has occurred...and the weather was "perfect."
President Calvin Coolidge and the First Lady were on hand with the President doing a "brilliant job" of throwing out the first pitch from the presidential box. Also present were several cabinet members including the Secretary of State, Secretary of Treasury and Attorney General.
*Griffith Stadium (1911-1965) located between Georgia Ave & 5th Street, W Street & Florida Ave NW was first called National Park & then American League Park.
GS was renamed in honor of Clark Griffith, owner of the Washington Senators baseball club in 1923. The park was the home of the team 1911-1961 & the Redskins of the NFL for 24 years. GS was demolished in 1965 & is now the site of Howard University Hospital.
SOURCE
"40,000 Fans, Led By President, Out For Opening Game," The Evening Star, Washington, D.C., April 22, 1925, Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
