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81 years ago today Reds GM Larry MacPhail receives the ceremonial signal from the White House and turns on 632 floodlights for the Major Leagues first night game in history. The Reds hosted the Philadelphia Philles for the historic night that McPhail pushed for claiming games under the lights would generate more revenue – which it did.
The Reds beat the Phillies 2-1 in what seem otherwise dull game with just ten hits between both teams and only one extra basehit – a double by the Reds Billy Myers. But being it was the first time baseball fans watched a night game it was probably a very memorable experience for the 20,422 that came out that chilly Cincinnati night.
-Ron Bolton
Photo Credit: The featured photo was taken by Earl D. Payne, one of the three electrical engineers who designed the lighting layout for Crosley Field. He worked for CG&E – the Cincinnati Gas and Electric CO. For more information, see the comment below from his son, Robert B. Payne.
I am Robert B. Payne. The above text about the 1st MLB night game is very good – I wish to say my father – Earl D. Payne is one of the three electrical engineers who designed the lighting layout for Crosley Field. He worked for CG&E – the Cincinnati Gas and Electric CO. He also was the professional who took the above photo along with over 30 more photos of the 1st MLB night game on 24 May 35. I have all these photos copyrighted and they are in the BHOF in Cooperstown NY. They are also in my book – Let There Be Light A History of Night Baseball 1880 – 2008. GE provided the lighting equipment and the light towers and CG&E did the lighting layout. I would appreciate the photo credit – by Robert B. Payne. Tele. 1- 719 – 260 – 6761 or e – mail Nunn10@aol. The Best , Robert B. Payne
Absolutely Robert, will add the photo credit for your father. Thanks for contacting us. -Gary
I totally appreciate the photo credits. I also would happily provide a copy of my book – Let There Be Light A History of Night Baseball – Earl D. Payne’s photos – additional info. on the process leading up to the highly successful 1st MLB game using artificial illumination. The Crosley Field night game in May 35 initiated a new era in baseball permitting the men and women of America to enjoy professional ballgames after the sun goes down and the lights go on. The Best – Robert B. Payne