The "HOF" experience....

[Cubzfan64]

This was my first trip to the HOF and I have several observations to make - those of you who attended as well, I'd love to hear your thoughts:

 

1. Cooperstown NY is a perfect place for the Baseball HOF! The quaint, quiet village fits perfectly with the concept of "anywhere USA" which sort of sums up what baseball is to all of us who love it. It reminded me of the town from "Bull Durham."

 

2. I ran across so many nice people during my visit - from residents of Cooperstown who were extremely polite and helpful to fellow baseball fans (mostly Cub fans) who made each other feel like we all had known each other forever. It was a very comfortable "family" type experience.

 

3. I've always been sort of on the fence about whether Pete Rose should be in the HOF or not. After being there and seeing it all, I'm 100% convinced that Pete Rose should be there! The things he accomplished in the game are without a doubt worthy of being inducted. Everyone makes mistakes - I hope a commissioner with balls eventually forgives him and allows his achievements to be recognized and put him in.

 

4. The only downside to the whole thing for me is somewhat of a weird thing I suppose. It took away alot of the "awe and aura" of many HOF'rs for me to see so many of them virtually only signing autographs for money - I realize that's being petty of me and I understand why many of them are doing it - but it still put a little of a "tarnish" on the whole image for me. There were some guys who seemed to be very cool, smiling and talking to fans, letting them take pictures etc... - then there were guys like Fergie Jenkins signing things for $20 which went to his foundation (and he was kind enough to actually talk to you), but there were plenty of guys signing for $50+ and having fans "herded through" so fast that you barely even got a chance to look at some of these "boyhood hero's."

 

Like I said - I'm sure I'm being petty - these guys can't just sit there and sign over and over and spend 10 minutes talking to each and every person, but I saw a couple guys refuse to sign autographs for a couple little kids who happened upon them when not many other people were around - there were some who didn't even want a picture taken unless there was a "donation."

 

All in all it was a great experience and one I won't soon forget!

[burnt out cubbie fan]

I went to the Hall in 94 before the season got suspended and I agree with a lot of what you have to say. I love the way that there are card and memorabilia shops up and down the main street. For me, one of the coolest things was driving to Cooperstown. You drive up this mountain highway, but it isn't that wide and it isn't that high. It is really beautiful scenic drive and it really sets the tone for the day. I went to the football hall of fame on the same trip and while it was pretty convenient to get there, it seemed more like a stop on the road sort of thing rather than an adventure. Going to Cooperstown almost feels like you are stepping back in time. For any of you that have not been there, especially those that are boycotting because of Ronnie not being in, I would highly suggest you take the trip. It is really something that every baseball fan should experience.

 

On a side note, Fergie was doing the same thing at the Cubs convention. He seems like a really nice guy.

[erik316wttn]

I was there last summer. It wasn't as packed as it was with HOF weekend, but it was kinda busy. I loved it, though. Cooperstown is a beautiful little town, like those you'd see on a postcard.