The Jay Littleton Ball Park in Ontario, California, a cherished landmark featured in the 1992 film A League of Their Own, was consumed by a devastating fire late Thursday night.
The historic ballpark, built in the 1930s, could not be saved despite significant efforts by firefighters, as the New York Post reports.
The fire erupted around 11:30 p.m., sending flames towering over the once-beloved stadium. Jay Littleton Ball Park, a piece of cinematic history and a community treasure, has stood as a symbol of Ontario's rich past for nearly a century.
Jay Littleton Ball Park wasn't just a local baseball field; it served as a stage for Hollywood. The park was prominently featured in A League of Their Own, a film directed by Penny Marshall that depicted the real-life story of the first professional all-female baseball league during World War II. The movie, which starred Tom Hanks, Madonna, Rosie O'Donnell, and Geena Davis, remains one of the most beloved baseball films ever made, earning over $100 million at the box office.
In addition to A League of Their Own, the ballpark was also used in Eight Men Out, The Babe, and an episode of The X-Files. These projects have cemented the park's status as a cultural and cinematic icon, drawing fans from across the country to visit the historic site.
The park, which became a historic landmark in 2003, had undergone several renovations over the years. Despite these efforts, the structure, which was primarily made of old, dry wood, was particularly vulnerable to fire.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigators, including arson specialists, are currently examining the site to determine how the blaze began. Although the fire caused significant destruction, no injuries were reported, and the Ontario Fire Department has been working diligently to uncover the source of the flames.
Aaron Matthiesen, president of the Ontario Eastern Little League, expressed his sorrow over the loss of the park. "This ballpark has been the heart of Ontario, it’s a historical ballpark, a place to play for our kids," Matthiesen told ABC 7. The loss of this venue has left a void in the community, particularly for the young players who once dreamed of stepping onto the same field where Hollywood legends once stood.
"Unfortunately, we’re not going to be able to get a chance to play in it anymore," Matthiesen lamented, reflecting on the emotional impact the fire has had on those who cherished the park.
As news of the fire spread, residents of Ontario and fans of the iconic films expressed their grief and shock. The ballpark was more than just a sports venue; it was a link to the past, a place where history came alive both through the game and the stories told on screen.
For the city of Ontario, the destruction of Jay Littleton Ball Park represents not just the loss of a historic site but also a significant cultural and communal loss. The park was a symbol of the city's heritage and a reminder of the golden age of both baseball and Hollywood.
Investigators will continue to search for answers in the coming days, hoping to bring closure to a community that has been deeply affected by the loss. The Ontario Fire Department remains committed to finding the cause and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again.
The legacy of Jay Littleton Ball Park will live on in the hearts of those who cherished it and in the films that brought its charm to the big screen. The story of this ballpark, like the stories told on its field, will continue to be remembered by fans and residents alike, even as they mourn its loss.
