Revere, Massachusetts is an underrated gem when it comes to exploring the history of sports in America. The city has a rich sporting heritage that reflects its diverse, bustling, gritty and bluecollar population. From baseball to horse racing, there are plenty of historical events and locations around town that tell a story.
One such location is Wonderland Greyhound Park (Worthington St., 02151). It was one of the most successful greyhound tracks in American history during its heyday from 1935 until it closed in 2010. Visitors can still see some remnants of this historic venue and imagine what it was like watching dogs race around the track.
Another mustvisit spot for sports enthusiasts is Harry Agganis Way (Rte 107) which honors a local icon who played football at Boston University before joining the Red Sox. Agganis died tragically young but has remained beloved by locals for his gritty determination on field as well as his devotion to his hometown.
For fans of baseball founded almost two hundred years ago visit nearby Saugus where Billiards Hill was home to local games since time immemorial before becoming more formalized over time. Also check out Stan Pratt Fields(54 Fenno St.) where many Little League games have been played; Rumney Marsh Burial Ground(40 Butler Ave.),where some famous ball players graves are found.
Visitors should also make their way down Ocean Avenue extension leading into Nahant Bay where tightknit ItalianAmerican community used to hold regattas using wooden boats called gondolas or Churchills because they were first held during Epiphany season.The tradition continues today with newer boats at Race Point Regatta being hosted by Winthrop Yacht Club.(649 Shirley Street)
No trip would be complete without stopping at Kellys Roast Beef (Maverick Sq. or Revere Beach) for a delicious sandwich, and its proximity to Americas First Public Beach where many sandlot baseball games were held . It was here that Babe Ruth crushed the longest home run ever in 1926 over fifty years before the famous Dunkin Donuts commercial featuring Larry Bird and Michael Jordan aired.
To truly experience the essence of Reveres sporting culture, you must attend their annual St Anthony Feast(Endicott Ave., August). While primarily a religious procession celebrating patron saint Antonio Padua da Lisbona who is believed to grant miracles, It also features traditional bocce tournaments historically involving local sports heroes as well as other lively entertainment.
Reveres rich sporting history may be overlooked by many travelers but delving into its past will give visitors insight into what makes it such an authentic American city today.
Websites:
https://www.reverechamber.org/
Twitter:
null Worthington St.
Revere, MA 02151
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null Rte 107 Ma
Revere, MA
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54 Fenno St. Ma
Revere, MA
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40 Butler Ave. Ma
Revere, MA
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649 Shirley Street Ma
Revere, MA
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Maverick Sq. Or Revere Beach Ma
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Revere, MA
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null Endicott Ave.
August, MA
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