Old-time feel at Burlington Athletic Stadium

In 1963, it was where Luis Tiant set the single-season Carolina League record for strikeouts. It's where superstars Manny Ramirez, Jim Thome, Bartolo Colon and C.C. Sabathia, to name a few, played some of their first professional games.

It made a special appearance in one of baseball's most well-known movies, Bull Durham.

It's also the only active ballpark in the Minors which isn't in its original location.

Burlington Athletic Stadium is beginning to represent a dying breed in the world of Minor League ballparks: the small, intimate parks of old.

Set in the heart of Burlington, N.C., a city of 50,000 with a rich history, Burlington Athletic Stadium has made a name for itself among its Appalachian League counterparts.

Today, the park is home to the Burlington Indians, Rookie League affiliate of the Cleveland Indians.

The stadium was originally constructed in Danville, Va. as the home of the Danville Leafs. In 1958, when the Leafs folded, the city of Burlington bought the stadium for $5,000.

After dismantling the park, pieces were transferred by flatbed trucks to Burlington. The concrete foundation was reconstructed in Burlington according to the original blueprints.

"I've seen pictures of the ballpark in Danville," said Burlington Indians general manager Mark Cryan. "And it's hard to see any differences, that's how similar it looks to the original. It's one of the few classic parks left in the Minors."

In 1960, the B-Tribe had a place to call its own until they left Burlington in 1972. An affiliation with Cleveland returned in 1986, when the wooden grandstand seats and floors were replaced with aluminum decking and seats while the structural steel and roof of the grandstand remained in its original form.

Surrounding the grandstand are two sets of wooden bleachers down the first and third baselines. A small playground for children was added near right field, and picnic areas scattered throughout the park are perfect for small gatherings.

Visiting reporters are in for a surprise when they see the press box is situated on top of the grandstand.

"There's like a fire escape-type ladder you climb up to get there," said Cryan with a laugh. "If you're afraid of heights, it's probably going to be a tough night for you."

Offices, concessions and rest rooms are scattered in the concourse, which wraps around behind the grandstand. Though the menu is chock full of ballpark fare like hot dogs, peanuts and cotton candy, there are a few unique items Burlington Athletic Stadium is known for.

Located in the heart of the Bar-B-Que belt, it's no surprise Burlington Athletic Stadium offers plenty of bar-b-que treats. And to wash those bar-b-que burgers down, fans can indulge in a serving of Cheerwine Soda, a cherry flavored soft drink that's popular in Burlington.

Cheerwine and bar-b-que sandwiches are best enjoyed in the new party deck down the third-base line.

As far as promotions, the B-Tribe doesn't need create new ones, as their fans already keep themselves entertained.

Kristi Parker, or "The Green Acres Lady," as she's known around the ballpark is famous for bringing to life a rendition of the theme to the old TV show "Green Acres," during every home game when the PA announcer plays the song.

Providing backup and singing the chorus to the theme song are the "Third Base Rowdies," led by Richard Parker (no relation to Kristi Parker). With Kristi Parker's seat directly behind the visitors' dugout, Cryan said traveling teams are in for a treat.

"The best part is seeing their faces when they see her for the first time," said Cryan. "She belts it out, every game. And the 'Third Base Rowdies,' just sing it right back to her. It's great."

Vocals from octogenarian Harrison Jones also are a regular part of home games. He sings the National Anthem about every other day, according to Cryan, and sometimes sings 'Take me out to the Ballgame,' from the stands.

"You can't create that. It's just a part of being a family here at the ballpark. It's not something you market, it's just our fans having a great time," said Cryan.