Historic Inwood – The Dyckman Oval

BY Led Black (@Led_Black)

Did you know that on the grounds where the Dyckman Houses now stand, there was once a storied athletic field known as the Dyckman Oval? Dyckman Oval was the home of the New York Cubans, comprised of Cuban, Puerto-Rican, African-American and Dominican players, and became part of the Eastern Colored League in 1923. The Sultan of Swat, Babe Ruth himself, actually played there once in 1935 against the Cubans and drew an over-flowing crowd of over 10,000 fans. The City of New York eventually demolished the Dyckman Oval in 1938 and the Dyckman Houses were completed in 1951.

This post came about because of one of our long time readers; James Bosley of the Up theater posted a comment suggesting we talk about the Dyckman Oval. By the way, Columbia University Medical Center is having the opening reception for Lou Grant’s Negro League Baseball in the 40’s tonight 5:30 to 7 PM at Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion, 1150 St. Nicholas Avenue (at 168th Street).

Thanks to myinwood.net/ for all the great historical information and pictures.

Check out:

Historic Inwood – The Seaman Drake Arch

Heights History – Hilltop Park

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