First in the Field
March 28th , 3:30pm – 5:30pm
Join author Thomas W. Gilbert for a book talk and walking tour centered on one of baseball’s most fascinating forgotten figures: James Creighton, a young prodigy whose brief life helped shape American sports as we know it. By the age of 21, the New York-born Creighton had invented modern pitching, helping transform baseball from a casual pastime into our first national sport. Widely considered baseball’s first true star, his image even appeared on one of the first baseball cards.
In his new book, Death in the Strike Zone: The Mystery of America’s First Baseball Hero, Gilbert brings Creighton’s world vividly to life, exploring the innovations that changed how baseball was played and watched, and how his sudden death sent shockwaves through a young sports culture still finding its footing.
Price: Free
(see details below)
Following the talk, the group will walk to Creighton’s grave, where Gilbert will reflect on the unsolved mysteries of Creighton’s life and death, the birth of sports fandom, and the enduring question of how we remember athletes long after the game is over.
Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Free. Registration required. Please consider a $10 donation to the Green-Wood Historic Fund so that we can continue to offer more programs like this throughout the year.
BEFORE RESERVING YOUR SPOT, PLEASE NOTE:
- Where To Go: This program will take place at the Modern Chapel near the Main Entrance at Fifth Avenue and 25th Street (500 25th Street).
- Accessibility & Safety: While most of the program takes place in the Modern Chapel, it is not fully ADA-accessible; it includes a walking tour over hilly, grassy, and uneven terrain. This portion is not wheelchair accessible and may be challenging for those with balance or mobility issues. There are no seating areas during the tour. For disability-related accommodations, contact us at 718-210-3080, ext. 1 or events@green-wood.com. This tour is not recommended for children under 10. Please wear appropriate footwear.
Green-Wood’s public programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, as well as the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.