The dog days of summer are a time when a boy, teenager or man’s thoughts turn to baseball. As the last days of school wound down, I was always thinking about how we could get a game together at my neighbor’s house up the road. I have fond memories of finally being allowed to play in the big kid’s game at the Sansone’s field. Because of my fascination with baseball, when my grandmother announced we would be travelling up to the Finger Lakes in New York to visit friends I wasn’t outright bored. I knew that a side trip would be to Cooperstown, the home of the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Of the various Halls of Fame, I can’t speak, but the Baseball Hall of Fame goes back to the roots of the game and also includes current memorabilia that highlights current streaks, record chases and isn’t just a place where the busts of those enshrined are housed. As a baseball fan who attended games at the old Forbes Field in Pittsburgh and listened to the exploits of Willie Stargell and Roberto Clemente, seeing some of their equipment and accomplishments in the hall of Fame was very impressive. I recommend a trip even to those who don’t love baseball, but enjoy history.