Monsignor Crawford Field

Did Monsignor Crawford ever imagine his name would grace a baseball field? Here at Monsignor Crawford Field, the legacy of a dedicated priest lives on. Monsignor Thomas J. Crawford, born in Brooklyn in 1885, dedicated his life to serving his community. He became the founding pastor of Mary Queen of Heaven Church in 1927. He tirelessly guided his congregation through the hardships of the Great Depression, transforming the church into a beacon of hope for the neighborhood. Starting with mass in the store below his apartment, Monsignor Crawford’s dedication led to the construction of the church at 1395 West 56th Street. He served as pastor for 35 years before retiring in 1966, passing away a month later at the age of 80. Years after his passing, two ball fields on Avenue U, just a short distance from the church he founded, were dedicated in his honor. Monsignor Crawford Field, a lasting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to his community, continues to serve as a hub for sports and recreation. The fields, revitalized in 2000, are home to Amity Little League and Good Shepherd Sports. They also host events like the Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit, and Run clinic, giving young athletes a chance to hone their skills. Monsignor Crawford Field, a symbol of community spirit and the enduring impact of a dedicated priest, stands as a reminder that even amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, the legacy of compassion and service lives on.