Exploring the History of Sports in Chelsea, MA

Chelsea, Massachusetts may be a small city compared to its more wellknown neighbors like Boston and Cambridge, but it has a rich history when it comes to sports. From baseball games played by immigrants in the late 19th century to basketball matches held in local gyms during the mid20th century, Chelseas sporting events reflect the diverse and dynamic aspects of its tightknit community.

One important location for exploring this history is Highland Park (32 Central Ave, Chelsea). It was here that two Italian immigrant leagues played their first game of baseball against each other back in 1892. Known as the Intercity League and East Boston League respectively, these teams consisted mostly of manual laborers who saw baseball as a way to connect with others from similar backgrounds.

Another great place to visit is Williams School (180 Walnut St, Chelsea), which used to be home to one of New Englands most famous amateur basketball tournaments The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) Tournament. This event attracted teams from all over the region and sometimes even further away for four days full of fierce competition. Local rivalries were particularly intense as players often represented their respective neighborhoods or parishes.

One more mustsee location is Bellingham Square (1 Washington Ave #101a, Chelsea), where boxing exhibitions were regularly held throughout much of the 20th century. Some notable fighters who competed there include Tony DeMarco known as The Flame who won both world welterweight title and middleweight titles during his career; Buddy Ferreira Freddy Roachs uncle; Willie Pep considered one of greatest featherweights ever ; Bobby Russo; Joe Salvati later exonerated mistakenly convicted crime boss Whitey Bulgerrelated crimes.

Apart from these specific locations mentioned above tourists can also explore Everett Beach or Condon Park on any given day where pickup basketball games are still played with a level of intensity that harkens back to the CYO Tournament. Visitors may also check out Mary C Burkes 1987 book Making Connections: The Bilingual and Bicultural History of Chelsea, Massachusetts which includes quotes from many people recalling their sports memories.

In conclusion, exploring Chelseas sporting history is not only about learning about games and players from decades ago its also a way to appreciate the citys unique traditions and culture. Whether youre interested in baseball, basketball or boxing or just enjoy experiencing local vibrant communities, there is no shortage of places to visit in this small but dynamic city.

Websites:

City of Chelsea website (https://www.chelseama.gov/)

Intercity League website (http://intercityleaguebaseball.com/)

Twitter:

@CityofChelseaMA

@CYOBoston1