In the spirit of baseball's rich history, I embarked on a unique journey to experience the Twin Cities' 'Streetcar Doubleheaders' of the past, reimagined for the modern era. This isn't just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it's an exploration of how the city's past and present intertwine, offering a fresh perspective on the game we all love. As a transit enthusiast, I was particularly drawn to the idea of combining baseball with the Green Line, a light rail system that mirrors the historic streetcar routes of the 1920s.
The 'Streetcar Series' was an annual holiday tradition where the St. Paul Saints and Minneapolis Millers would play doubleheaders, with fans riding streetcars between games. This concept, often overlooked in historical accounts, is a fascinating glimpse into the past. I set out to recreate this experience, and in doing so, I uncovered a wealth of insights about the city's history, its transportation, and the enduring appeal of baseball.
The Millers and Saints, both part of the American Association of Base Ball Clubs (AA), were the kings of their league in the early 20th century. Their close proximity and rivalry made them natural fixtures in the Twin Cities' sporting landscape. Meanwhile, the Twin Cities Rapid Transit Company (TCRT) operated a network of streetcar lines that crisscrossed the city, connecting the ballparks and fostering a sense of community.
My journey began at Lexington Station in St. Paul, where the Saints once played. The intersection was once home to Lexington Park, the Saints' ballpark from 1895 to 1915. Today, a historical display near the Huntington Bank branch pays homage to the park's past. I tapped my GoTo card and boarded the Green Line, which followed the route of the historic Interurban streetcar line.
The Interurban was a bustling industrial corridor, with the highest ridership in the cities. In 1920, it arrived every three minutes during rush hour and every seven minutes outside of that. While not particularly fast, the streetcars ambled through the system at an average of 10-12 miles per hour, a pace that remains unchanged today. The ballparks were conveniently located near TCRT garages, ensuring a seamless transition from game to game.
The experience of riding the streetcar between games was a unique blend of convenience and nostalgia. In 1920, the fare was a token or 5 cents, equivalent to around $1 today. The streetcar lines were not assigned to specific stops, and passengers hailed drivers as needed. The front of the car was for paying fares, while the back was for smokers and conversation.
Today, I was grateful for the absence of smokers in my car. I arrived at Target Field, where the Twins played the Chicago Cubs, and joined my friends. We explored the ballpark, enjoying sausages and mini donuts. Most of us were baseball novices, but we were invested in the drama of the game, cheering for specific players and enjoying the excitement.
The Millers and Saints were exciting draws in the 1920s, packing ballparks with fans. Good bleacher seats cost $1, equivalent to around $15 today, while cheap seats along the outfield were often just a nickel or two. The games were raucous, with fist fights and heckling, a stark contrast to the modern game.
After the Cubs won handily, we headed to the exit and boarded the Green Line. We learned a lesson from a previous year: separate queuing locations for Green Line and Blue Line trains. We spread out our blankets on the hill at CHS Field for the Saints vs. Iowa Cubs game, cheering for players based on their names and enjoying the camaraderie.
The Saints defeated the I-Cubs 2-1, and we watched the fireworks after dark. We ambled down the street to Union Station, waiting for the less frequent night train. The streetcar and baseball connection was an inseparable part of city life for nearly half a century, until growing automobile use, maintenance neglect, and business collusion dismantled the system.
Decades later, the Saints returned to St. Paul in 1993, and Target Field and CHS Field opened in 2010 and 2014, respectively. Today, you can still attend a 'Light Rail Doubleheader' as many would have a century ago. I first planned this excursion as an excuse to reconnect with history and rediscover the rhythm of the city. It was a day spent with friends, exploring places we already knew in a new way, and creating memories that will last.
If you're interested in experiencing a 'Light Rail Doubleheader' yourself, start with a spreadsheet. Find all the dates when the Twins and Saints play home games, and cross off any games that don't start within four hours of each other. Check for personal conflicts, and pick a date. According to my spreadsheet, the Twins and Saints are playing 'Streetcar Doubleheaders' on the following dates this season. I hope to see you there!
