Fenway Park: The Oldest Ballpark in Use in MLB
America’s Oldest Ballpark Still in Play
Fenway Park is a baseball stadium and a living museum of America’s pastime. Since its opening on April 20, 1912, Fenway has held the title of the oldest ballpark in use in Major League Baseball. Located in Boston’s Fenway–Kenmore neighborhood, this historic venue has witnessed over a century of baseball legends, dramatic pennant races, and countless unforgettable moments.
The original ad-covered Green Monster in 1914, with "overflow" fan seating in front of the wall's base, atop "Duffy's Cliff"
Key Dates & Milestones
April 20, 1912: First game played—Boston Red Sox vs. New York Highlanders
1914: First World Series hosted at Fenway Park
1934: Introduction of the iconic Green Monster in left field
1946: Fenway’s first night game played under temporary lights
2002–2019: Major renovation project preserves historic charm while modernizing amenities
Why Fenway Park Stands Out
Historic Legacy
Oldest continuously used ballpark in MLB
Home to historic events: Babe Ruth’s early career, 1918 World Series title, the 2004 “Curse-breaking” championship
Iconic Features
Green Monster: 37-foot left-field wall known worldwide
Pesky’s Pole: Right-field foul pole, just 302 feet from home plate
Manual Scoreboard: Operating since 1934, one of only four remaining in MLB
Timeless Architecture
Asymmetrical outfield dimensions give Fenway its unique character
Brick façade and wooden seats evoke early 20th-century ballpark design
Fenway Park diagram for the 1912 World Series
Fenway Park Opening Day: April 20, 1912
Game Details:
Boston Red Sox defeated the New York Highlanders 7–6
First batter at Fenway: Duffy Lewis (recorded first hit and run)
Attendance: Approximately 27,000 fans, a record for the era
Construction Facts:
Built in just over five months at a cost of $650,000
Designed by architect James E. McLaughlin
Visiting Fenway Today
Whether you’re a lifelong Red Sox fan or a first-time visitor, Fenway Park offers:
Guided Tours: Explore the press box, visiting team clubhouse, and the Green Monster roof
Red Sox Museum: Artifacts ranging from early jerseys to World Series trophies
Game-Day Experience: Catch the atmosphere of “Sweet Caroline,” roving peanuts & Cracker Jack vendors, and Fenway Franks
