The New York Mets Hall of Fame & Museum debuted at the April 5, 2010, Opening Day at Citi Field.
The Mets collaborated on the 3,700 square-foot museum with designers at Populous, also the ballpark's original architects; curators at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum; and exhibit producers at 1220 Exhibits Inc. The Mets Hall of Fame & Museum, adjacent to the Jackie Robinson Rotunda on the first base side of Citi Field, will be accessible through the Rotunda on game days to all fans holding tickets.
"The ballpark design process is an evolutionary one," said Ben Barnert, Populous Senior Principal. "The Mets' Hall of Fame & Museum is a great example of how design can enhance the fan experience."
The Mets Hall of Fame & Museum recognizes the greatest moments in club history and honors those who have left an indelible mark on the organization. The museum features significant artifacts, interactive exhibits, videos and photographic imagery, recognizing the unforgettable plays and players that have defined the Mets' 48-year history.
Highlights include plaques honoring the 21 members of the Mets Hall of Fame, the 1969 and 1986 World Series Championship trophies, and memorabilia on loan from Mets greats including: Tom Seaver's 1969 Cy Young Award and Keith Hernandez’s 1987 Gold Glove Award. The ball Mookie Wilson hit in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series that brought Ray Knight home with the winning run – voted by fans as the most memorable moment in Shea Stadium history – will also be on display courtesy of the Seth Swirsky Collection.
The Mets Hall of Fame & Museum features more than a dozen artifacts from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, N.Y. including the ball used in the first play at Shea Stadium, Tommie Agee's glove from the 1969 World Series and the ball Tom Seaver threw to Mike Piazza for the ceremonial first pitch to open Citi Field. Numerous private collectors have also loaned memorabilia for display at the Mets Hall of Fame & Museum.
Exhibits chronicle all facets of Mets history including the creation of the franchise, the work of broadcasting legends Ralph Kiner, Bob Murphy and Lindsey Nelson, and the championship seasons of 1969 and 1986. Major League Baseball Productions created custom videos of those memorable seasons for display at the museum.
"The Mets Hall of Fame & Museum honors the greatest players and greatest events in our history," said Dave Howard, Executive Vice President, Business Operations, New York Mets. "The museum connects generations of fans to the moments they cherish and reflects our ongoing commitment to celebrate our heritage and history at Citi Field."
Exhibits
Ring of Champions
Focuses on the Mets World Series Championships in 1969 and 1986 and includes the World Series trophies.
Mets Hall of Fame
The 21 members of the Mets Hall of Fame are honored with classic bronze plaques. The Class of 2010 will be inducted Sunday, August 1.
The Mets Story/Defining Moments Display
This video narrated by broadcaster Gary Cohen takes fans on a journey from the early seasons at the Polo Grounds to Citi Field, highlighting memorable players and unforgettable moments. The Defining Moments display features World Series rings and press pins, as well as ticket stubs and game-used balls.
Mr. Met
This exhibit features an original Mr. Met head and a host of fun facts about the origin and continued popularity of baseball's first live-action mascot.
Put It in the Books
Players who set Mets records and rank among the club's all-time statistical leaders are recognized with artifacts from their achievements.
Tom Seaver
A tribute to the first Mets player inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Birth of a Franchise
Chronicles the early history of the franchise, from its creation to the first years under the watch of manager Casey Stengel.
Broadcast Legends
Honors original Mets Ralph Kiner, Bob Murphy and Lindsey Nelson, while also recognizing current Mets broadcasters.
Stadiums
This tribute to the Mets' homes includes a game-used ball from the Polo Grounds, first game program from Shea Stadium, and a ticket from the first game at Citi Field.
Mets Uniform History
From Casey Stengel's 1962 original ensemble to Johan Santana's 2008 home jersey, this exhibit displays classic uniforms representing the different eras of Mets baseball.
For further information please contact
Gina Leo Stingley at Populous (Kansas City)
Telephone: +1 816 221 1500
Facsimile: +1 816 221 1578
Email media@populous.com