Kearney Nebraska has a great baseball history. Win Noyes started his career with Kearney in the Nebraska State League in 1910. They were also a part of the league in the 1922-1924 time frame and in the 1928-1938 league. I do now know where Kearney played during this time frame. Any additional information would be appreciated.

Kearney Memorial Field Photo by Bruce Esser

At the end of World War II, Kearney built Memorial Field. Built on a hill it is a great example of the kinds of stadiums built during this era. The NSL started up again in 1956 with the cooperation and support of Major League Baseball. Memorial Park was the home of the Kearney Yankees and is now the home of the University of Nebraska Kearney team and local American Legion teams.

The field is dug into a hill. The entrance is at the top of the hill. As you can see, you enter through a well maintained building which serves as offices, press box and concession stand. The signs tell you that the current use of the park is for Legion ball and UNK baseball.

If you go to a game at the stadium be sure to bring a cushion. The stands are concrete and do not have a back except for the ones behind home plate. This stadium and the one in Hastings were considered to be the best in the NSL during the 56-59 time frame.

 

	The field is still in great shape. The infield is in great shape, the facility is well maintained and clean.
The field features a picnic area behind the stands. The ball park feels like a stadium in a much bigger city. It is gem in central Nebraska.

Baseball Fields of Nebraska Home

Nebraska Minor League Baseball Home

© 2009 Bruce Esser