The Story of Modisett Ball Park
‘Extra Innings’ Now Available
The new history of baseball in Rushville and the town’s remarkable Modisett Ballpark is now available!
Extra Innings: The Story of Modisett Ball Park tells the tale of the early days of baseball in the Rushville community, the bachelor ranchers brothers Albert and Mayre Modisett and their gifts to the town, the establishment of the famous Rushville Baseball School, and the community’s rally to restore the historic ball park.
Written by Nebraska historian Jeff Barnes, the full-color book is available in paperback for $9.95 or hardcover for $15.95. They are on sale in Rushville at Hinn’s Hardware and soon at the Nebraska State Historical Society Landmark gift shop at the state capitol in Lincoln (watch for future retail locations). You may also order the book directly from the Carmen and John Gottschalk Foundation, 533 N. 86th St., Omaha, NE 68114. Please add $2 for shipping.
What’s Included in the Ball Park’s Restoration?
Very little remains from the original Modisett Ball Park, although the original dimensions and footprints of its structures are virtually unchanged. Essentially, this is the same ball park as originally built, only so much better! Included in the park’s restoration:
Fundraising brochure with proposed restoration and improvements
- A new grandstand with ADA access and a seating capacity of 450. Bleacher extensions raise capacity to 1,000.
- New below-grade dugouts will replace the originals on both sides of the field.
- New bullpens will be added to each side of the field.
- A new concession area and storage area under the grandstand.
- New men’s and women’s restrooms.
- A new batting cage
- A completely rebuilt infield for proper drainage
- A new underground sprinkler system
- A new announcer’s press box restored to the roof of the grandstand
- A new scoreboard
- With your support, new state-of-the-art lighting and other fan amenities will be secured
When Rushville Hosted the Big Leagues
Did you know Rushville and Modisett Ball Park hosted an annual baseball school and try-out camp in the 1950s and ’60s for the Milwaukee Braves, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Angels? Watch the video to see the Milwaukee Braves in town!
Rushville Baseball School Memories
The players and coaches come to town, including from Latin America! CLICK HERE