Clicks - "Let's Play Two!"
"The only way to prove that you're a good sport is to lose." - Ernie Banks
Sirikit and her daughter Kit accompanied me to pay our respects to Ernie Banks by visiting his gravesite. It was a sunny, hot, and humid day in the 90s, perfect for the visit and reminiscent of a day ideal for a doubleheader in mid-July.
I brought my Sony A7 IV and took several pictures, capturing the essence of the gravesite and the surrounding area. The headstone, simple and dignified, stood as a testament to Ernie Banks' enduring legacy. Stones and coins left by other visitors were scattered around, symbolizing the respect and remembrance felt by many.
Ernie Banks was a legendary figure in baseball, known for his joyful personality and love for the game. Here are some key highlights of his career and life:
Career: Banks played 19 seasons with the Chicago Cubs, from 1953 to 1971. He was a 14-time All-Star and hit 512 home runs in his career.
Awards: He won two National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards in 1958 and 1959.
Legacy: Banks was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. His jersey number 14 was retired by the Cubs, and a statue in his honor stands outside Wrigley Field.
Personality: Known for his catchphrase "Let's play two!" which expressed his enthusiasm for the game, Banks was beloved by fans and respected by his peers for his sportsmanship and positive attitude.
Visiting Ernie Banks' gravesite offers a moment to reflect on the life and legacy of one of baseball's greatest ambassadors. His contributions to the sport and his infectious love for the game continue to inspire fans and players alike.
Visiting Ernie Banks' Gravesite
The gravestone is modest yet dignified, reflecting Banks' humble nature. It includes his full name, birth and death dates, and his iconic number 14 jersey. The simplicity of the stone allows visitors to focus on the legacy of Banks and the fond memories he left behind.
Seeing stones and coins on the grave can be a moving experience, as it shows how many people continue to honor and remember Banks. Each stone or coin tells a story of a fan or a visitor who took the time to pay their respects, ensuring that Banks' legacy remains alive.
Graceland Cemetery is a historic and scenic cemetery that houses the graves of many notable figures from Chicago’s history. If you plan to visit, here are some tips:
Address: Graceland Cemetery is located at 4001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60613.
Hours: The cemetery is generally open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily, but it’s advisable to check their official website or call ahead to confirm hours.
Map: Upon entering, you can usually obtain a map from the office, which will help you locate Ernie Banks' grave along with other notable sites within the cemetery.
Respect: As with any visit to a gravesite, it's important to show respect by maintaining a quiet demeanor and not disturbing the area.