Gala Grand Opening of the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum

The Reds Hall of Fame and Museum opened with a bang last night, and was attended by not only the entire Reds 2004 team, but also featured no less than 15 former players, whose Reds Hall of Fame plaques hang in the hall. The Gala evening started with a private tour of the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, where players, former players and banquet attendees were treated to an unbelievable display of Reds history. The Museum itself measures 15,000 sq ft, and contains over 1000 exhibits, donated by players and fans alike. Equally impressive are the some 6,256 square feet of murals, which include such fine displays as a virtual 180 degree panorama view of the old Palace of the Fans.

Another hugely popular exhibit was the circular room called “Glory Days”, featuring life-size bronze statues of the “Great Eight” starting lineup of the 1970 Big Red Machine. It was a rare treat to see five of the Eight standing and posing for pictures next to these very impressive, life-size likenesses!

The museum also boasts an interactive area, the Play Ball! Gallery, where fans have the chance to engage in the experience of being “on the field” within the four sections devoted to Fielding, Hitting and Running, Pitching and Catching, and Managing. Beyond this gallery is an area named “The Reds are on the Radio”, which features a re-created broadcast booth where visitors can take their place behind the mike to call plays. This was a source of much amusement on opening night, when several of the players sat down in the booth to try their hands at broadcasting!

The Museum tour was followed by dinner on the Main Concourse, after which the much anticipated Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony took place. Present for the Ceremony were Sparky Anderson, Johnny Bench, Jack Billingham, Leo Cardenas, Clay Carroll, Dave Concepcion, George Foster, Wayne Granger, Ken Griffey, Tommy Helms, Jim Maloney, Joe Morgan, Joe Nuxhall, Jim O\'Toole, Tony Perez and Mario Soto.

The Museum officially opens on Saturday, September 25th. Don\'t miss it – it\'s well worth a visit!