In less than one year, Red Sox fans can enjoy Fenway Park's 100-year anniversary.
The first MLB game played at Fenway Park was April 20, 1912. To celebrate the 100th anniversary, the ballclub is preparing a presentation of shared stories from fans and any other significant item they would like to contribute to the day, like Boston memorabilia.
Over the past 10 years, mayor Thomas M. Menino, along with the Boston community, has worked to preserve "America's Most Beloved Ballpark."
On Wednesday, the club invited fans to join in the planning of the 2012 celebration.
"The celebration will highlight Red Sox history over the past hundred years and will also commemorate the wide range of other sports, music, civic, philanthropic, and community events that Fenway Park has hosted during its first century," the team said in a release.
"Fenway Park's 100th Anniversary will be an unprecedented and historic celebration," Red Sox principal owner John Henry said. "From Day 1, the preservation of this ballpark has been an issue of paramount importance to our ownership group. But the character of this ballpark has always been a reflection of the fans who call it home."
The Fenway Park 2012 logo was also unveiled on Wednesday while the team prepared for its afternoon contest with A's in Oakland. The keystone from the original facade that sits above Gate A acts as the backplate and serves as a metaphor to speak to the relationship between Fenway Park and the Red Sox. The event officials have also created a website to provide a center for fans to explore the history and share what they remember at fenwaypark100.com.
"Fenway Park's scope of sports and civic history is virtually unparalleled," Red Sox president/CEO Larry Lucchino said. "Through jubilation and heartbreak, victories and near-misses, this jewel of a ballpark has not only endured but thrived. Now, after more than $285 million in total investment over the last decade, we stand on the eve of a momentous occasion and celebration."
