In1910 a parcel of land south of the CN Railway and west of what is now the Don Ross Center was the location of the fair grounds and race track. In March of 1920 a meeting was held to organize North Battlefords first golf course. A nine-hole course perfectly located in this scenic location.
Immediately south off this field was King Hill. In winter the hill provided hours of entertainment; tobogganing, skiing and a huge bonfire at the base.
Although King Hill was an attraction in winter, it was summer when Abbott Field really came to life. This field hosted many events including the Ringling Brothers Three Ring Circus. Local Boy John Spencer recalls seeing elephants roaming the area helping set up tents for the big show.
Ball Park Hill became one of Saskatchewan's finest ball parks, displaying one of the most spectacular views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. In 1950, it became known as Abbott Field in memory of Jack Abbott, a gentleman who dedicated much of his life promoting sports in North Battleford.
There were two main entrances to this remarkable field. One way of entering was to walk over the power plant ravine cooling pond walkway and up the steep wooden steps. The other was to walk under the CN overpass and up the East hill. Many of these city and rural fans may have fond memories of sitting in the shade of their cars having a picnic lunch waiting for game 2 of a Sunday double header.
Recorded organ music playing Take Me Out To The Ball Game welcomed fans as they filed in to the ball park. The smells of fresh popcorn and fried onions drew them in as they came to watch their beloved Beavers.
The competition was great. Many future Major League Baseball players were seen honing their talents playing in Abbott Field.
Some will remember chasing a foul ball or home run ball. The dilemma they faced was to either keep the ball and have Louie Green autograph it or turn it in for five cents.
Abbott Field attracted a cast of colourful and entertaining characters both on and off the field. Yvonne Tiny Gould was Emile Francis's mother. Although small in stature her raspy critique of the umpires kept them in check.
Umpires Moe George and Ab Bidart never shied away from a close call. The shrill laughter of Rose Lamson was unforgettable. Another avid fan, Morris Campbell, always left the crowd wanting more of his humorous remarks.
The times were changing as the community grew and once again the ball field had to move due to the building of the new bridge on Highway 16 completed in 1967.
The Beavers played their final game in Abbott Field on June 29, 1966. Carman Keller hit the very last home run in this park in a 7-0 win over the Neilburg Monarchs. The closing ceremony had fan Rose Lamson being awarded the outhouse door by Johnny Ford and Ken Nelson.
Take a drive to the scenic lookout at King Hill, close your eyes and imagine the roar of thousands of fans echoing through the river valley and Coronation Park. Those were the days!
