History Pub: Diamonds in The Desert

At the turn of the 20^th century, baseball clubs were organized across Central Oregon, including the city of Bend. Baseball in Bend has continued for over ten decades from town teams to farm teams, semi-professionals to collegiate up-and-comers. Take a step back in time with Vanessa Ivey, DCHS Museum Manager, as she shares stories of an earlier era when baseball wasn’t just a favorite pastime, but a way to build commerce in communities. When the swat of a wood bat rang true whether you were a Bend Beauty or a Bend Elk, and twirling and hurling wasn’t just a county fair ride description.

As Deschutes Historical Museum’s manager for the past fifteen years, Vanessa Ivey is in the best position to research one of her favorite passions: BASEBALL! Growing up in Banks, Oregon she nurtured her love of the game both as a player and a fan. She continued playing ball at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon where she earned a bachelor’s degree in science. These days, she spends her summertime in the outfield on a local softball team, and in January travels to Tampa, Florida playing baseball with the New York Yankees Women’s Fantasy Camp.

Doors open at 6:00pm
Registration Required