Field of Dreams

I have always loved the movie "Field of Dreams." The entire story is heart-touching.  I also know many think the movie is nothing about baseball.  It may not be, but I still loved the history lesson part of the movie provided.  

It is also my introduction to townball, which still exists in Minnesota. There are over 300 teams.  During my retirement, I will attend and enjoy more games.

This past weekend, a friend whose boyfriend plays townball played a game in Dyersville, Iowa.  They would be playing on the movie set field!  I could not turn away the opportunity to go for the first time!

 

I decided to make this a day trip, leaving at 7:00 AM. It typically is a four-hour drive, but I took the scenic route in case I saw a chance to photograph some unique sites. I arrived at Dyersville and went to the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier. Construction on the Basilica started in September 1887. The church's cornerstone was laid on June 3, 1888; on December 3, 1889, Bishop Hennessy of Dubuque dedicated the new church. 

In recognition of the church's architectural attributes and the congregation's fervent faith, St. Francis Xavier Church was raised to a minor Basilica in 1956 by special proclamation of His Holiness Pope Pius XII. At that time, St. Francis Xavier was the twelfth church in the country to receive such an honor. Today, the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier is one of 53 basilicas in the United States.  It was a site to see!

Then I went to the "If You Build It" exhibit.  It is a dedicated exhibit for the Field of Dreams Movie from early conception to the heritage left behind. An excellent place to visit.  From Sue Riedel sending in the photo to the film producers without the property owner's (Dan Lansing) permission, about the painting the grass green (it was not natural) and some of the unique quotes, like instead of "you want to play catch" in the end Ray asks his dad "Hey Dad, you want to have a catch?".  

 

Here are a few select images from the trip.  I am looking to return in August for a Ghost Game.  That is where a team comes out of the corn and plays!  It should be fun.

 

Carry on my friends, carry on!