Historic Leclaire Field

Historic Leclaire Field. Historic Leclaire. , "The Leclaire Athletic Base Ball Club, one of the strongest amateur clubs in Southern Illinois, winning 48 out of 58 games the last two seasons, and on account of not having an enclosed park are again soliciting support of the business houses and those interested in the advancement of the team in this city, the money to be used to get new uniforms and other equipment needed to start the season.", "Notice to Base Ball Fans" Edwardsville Intelligencer, March 1924, When N.O. Nelson first conceived the utopian community of Leclaire, he ensured that in addition to the factories, which would sustain the town, that there were many spaces available for people to unwind and have fun., Known as "The Campus" when it was first developed in the 1890s, this ground provided a space for a variety of athletic events. Football, tennis, and basketball were all played here, and a Club House (torn down in the 1930s) offered bowling and billiards. But one sport has been played here continuously since the beginning - baseball. , Leclaire's first baseball teams were formed in 1892 with employees from the various manufacturing shops competing against each other. Prior to 1924, Edwardsville High School did not have the outdoor space for baseball or football, so they played here and were even called the Leclaire Tigers for a number of years. , This space has seen a few changes and updates since its creation. But what hasn't changed is that it is still a place for people to gather, enjoy the outdoors, and play ball!, Hey Kids, , Have you ever played on this field or watched a baseball game here? There is a reason why this field has the word "Historic" in its title. Athletes and spectators have been using this space to play games, relax, and socialize since the 1890s.