New Baseball Exhibit Opens in Knoxville

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNewsSports

Exhibit of baseball history in Knoxville featuring artifacts and displays.

News Summary

Knoxville is celebrating a new exhibit titled ‘Home Runs & Home Teams,’ showcasing the rich baseball history in Tennessee. The East Tennessee Historical Society invites fans and history lovers to explore tales from over 30 towns that hosted minor league teams. Alongside this, the excitement builds as the Knoxville Smokies prepare for a return to Minor League Baseball in their new home, Covenant Health Park. Visitors can experience the exhibit through September 28, 2025, and gear up for a spirited baseball season in the city!

Exciting New Baseball Exhibit Opens in Knoxville!

Knoxville, get ready to hit a home run with the newly launched exhibit, “Home Runs & Home Teams”! The East Tennessee Historical Society has set the stage for a fantastic experience that dives deep into the rich history of baseball in Tennessee. This exhibit is now open to the public, and it’s an event that baseball fans and history buffs alike will not want to miss!

A Blast from the Past

Did you know that the roots of baseball in Tennessee go way back to the 19th century? Over 30 towns have hosted minor league baseball teams throughout the years, making baseball a cherished part of the state’s culture. Whether you’re a lifelong Knoxville resident or just visiting, this exhibit offers a chance to learn about the fascinating stories that have shaped the baseball scene in Tennessee.

Celebrating Success

Adding to the baseball excitement, don’t forget that the University of Tennessee celebrated a monumental achievement last year by capturing its first baseball national championship! The spirit of baseball is certainly alive and well in the heart of the Volunteer State.

The Legacy of Knoxville Baseball

Knoxville has a special place in the hearts of baseball fans, particularly with teams like the Knoxville Giants that played in the Negro Southern League from 1920 to 1932. The city not only shares tales of sportsmanship but also of community growth and cultural integration. Baseball played a vital role in supporting integration efforts in the Pond Gap community from the 1930s through the 1950s. To commemorate this rich history, Pond Gap was recently designated as “Home Run Alley” in 2023.

Ready for a New Season

As Knoxville gears up for Minor League Baseball’s much-anticipated return, fans are buzzing with excitement. The Knoxville Smokies will kick off their season at the brand-new Covenant Health Park. Mark your calendars for April 15 when the Smokies will battle it out against the Chattanooga Lookouts in what promises to be a thrilling game!

The New Home of Knoxville Smokies

The Smokies have made their home at Smokies Stadium in Kodak since the year 2000, but this new stadium is set to change the game for Knoxville baseball fans. Construction for Covenant Health Park began in 2023, with a whopping budget of $114 million dedicated to making this facility a state-of-the-art venue! Besides hosting baseball games, this versatile park will also be the go-to spot for soccer matches, concerts, and various community events. The excitement is palpable as the community rallies around this new facility.

Head Over to the Exhibit!

If you want to journey through the history of baseball while enjoying the atmosphere of Knox County, be sure to visit the East Tennessee History Center at 601 S Gay Street. The exhibit “Home Runs & Home Teams” will be open for viewing until September 28, 2025. You can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of baseball history from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the week, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, and 1-5 p.m. on Sundays.

So, gather your friends and family and take a trip down memory lane at the exhibit while you gear up for a thrilling season at Covenant Health Park. Baseball is back in Knoxville, and it’s time for everyone to step up to the plate!