Witter Field facts for kids
| Former names | Lincoln Athletic Field |
|---|---|
| Location | 521 Lincoln St, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 |
| Owner | Wisconsin Rapids |
| Capacity | 4000 (1941) 3000 (1983), 1588 (current) |
| Field size | (LF-CF-RF): 320-385-320 320 L, 375 C, 320 R (current) |
| Surface | Grass |
| Construction | |
| Built | 1928 |
| Opened | 1928 |
| Renovated | 1950, 2010 |
| Tenants | |
| Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (2010-Present) Wisconsin Rapids Twins (1964-1983) Wisconsin Rapids Senators (1963) Wisconsin Rapids White Sox (1941-42; 1946-53) |
|
Witter Field is a cool baseball park located in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, USA. It was built way back in 1928. This field has been home to many different baseball teams over the years.
Today, it's where the Northwoods League's Wisconsin Rapids Rafters play their games. It also hosts games for youth teams, helping young players develop their skills.
Contents
The History of Witter Field
Witter Field has a long and interesting history in baseball. It first became home to professional teams in the 1940s.
Early Baseball Teams
The Wisconsin Rapids White Sox played here from 1941 to 1953. They were part of a league called the Class-D Wisconsin State League. After that league ended, professional baseball took a short break at Witter Field.
In the 1960s, new teams arrived. The Wisconsin Rapids Senators played in 1963. Then, the Wisconsin Rapids Twins took over from 1964 to 1983. These teams were part of the Class-A Midwest League.
Baseball Returns to Witter Field
After 1983, the Twins team moved away. But baseball fans didn't have to wait forever! In 2010, baseball made a big comeback. The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters started playing at Witter Field. They are part of the Northwoods League, which is a summer league for college players.
Building and Changes Over Time
The park was built in 1928. It was officially named "Witter Field" in 1940. Before that, it was called "Lincoln Athletic Field." The name change honored Isaac Witter.
Over the years, the field has been updated. In 1950, the old wooden bleachers were replaced. More recently, in 2010, 227 seats from a famous old stadium, Milwaukee County Stadium, were added.
Special Events at the Park
Witter Field has hosted some exciting events. From 2005 to 2008, it was the site of the youth WIAC state baseball tournament.
In 2011, the park hosted the Northwoods League All-Star Game. A famous baseball player, Paul Molitor, who is now in the Baseball Hall of Fame, was there for the celebration!
What You Can Find at Witter Field Today
Witter Field is a busy place! It's still a hub for baseball and other fun activities.
Current Baseball Use
Today, the field is used by local high school baseball teams. It also hosts Legion Baseball games. And, of course, it's the home field for the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters.
Other Fun Activities
The area around Witter Field is part of the Wisconsin Rapids Recreation Complex. This means there's more than just baseball! You can find:
- The Wisconsin Rapids Aquatic Center (for swimming!)
- Tennis courts
- Pickleball courts
- An ice skating rink
- A warming house (great for cold days)
- A football field
- A skate park
Famous Players Who Played Here
Many talented baseball players have played at Witter Field before making it big! Some of them went on to play in Major League Baseball.
- Gary Gaetti (1980): A great third baseman who won awards.
- Kent Hrbek (1980): A popular first baseman.
- John Castino (1976): Won the Rookie of the Year award.
- Rick Dempsey (1968–69): Was the MVP of the World Series in 1983.
- Charlie Manual (1967): Later became a successful Major League manager and won a World Series!
- Graig Nettles (1966): A powerful hitter and great defensive player.
- Jim Landis (1952): Known for his amazing defense in center field.
