A simple metal plaque. That’s all it seems to be at first glance. But this unassuming marker the Dedicated to the memory of James J Nealon Plaque holds a story. A story of baseball and a life cut short.
The plaque commemorates James Joseph Jim Nealon. He lived a brief life. Born in 1884 he died tragically young in 1910. This plaque isn’t in a grand mausoleum. It’s quietly situated at Big Rec a San Francisco baseball field. The field itself has a rich history. It’s one of two diamonds making up Big Rec. Nealon Diamond the smaller of the two is named in his honor.
Imagine the sounds of a lively game. The crack of the bat. The roar of the crowd. These sounds once echoed here decades ago. This field was once known as Recreation Park or Big Rec for short. It was a lively hub. It hosted the San Francisco Seals a professional baseball team. They played here from 1907 to 1930. They shared the field with another team the Mission Reds. They played at the same time. The legendary Seals. They even shared a field with them.
Big Rec held a unique charm. A section of the bleachers was fenced off. It was known as the booze cage. Fans could enjoy a drink. A sandwich was also included in the price of admission. A baseball game and a drink. What a fantastic combination.
The story of James J Nealon may be small. This plaque is his memorial. He is remembered at the diamond that bears his name. A field where games once echoed with laughter and the cheers of a community. This plaque reminds us of the people. The lives lived in this place. A quiet tribute to a man’s life and the legacy of this beloved baseball field.