Museum Celebrating History of Lacrosse

The LaCrosse Hall of Fame in Baltimore, Maryland is a great place to visit if you are a fan of the game or if you would like to learn more about the game. The museum is located at 113 West University Parkway, next to the Homewood Field on the campus of Johns Hopkins University. This is fitting since Maryland's lacrosse tradition is alive and thriving on the campuses of the state's colleges. Hopkins is no exception to this and their lacrosse team continues to excel, while carrying on the tradition of the game.

The museum illustrates the history of lacrosse from its introduction to early European settlers by the Native Americans. It was one of many stickball games they shared, but the game lost popularity because it was associated with gambling. On Indian reservations, lacrosse was often a violent event and had few regulations. Often, hundreds of people would be on the field, and few considered the game civilized. Many Europeans also felt it interfered with church attendance.

Museum exhibits include rare photos, vintage equipment, and uniforms. There are also two movies featured in the exhibit, "Lacrosse: The Spirit Lives'' and "More Than a Game: A History of Lacrosse.'' Both movies are a great way to begin your tour of the museum, and helps those unfamiliar with the tradition of lacrosse understand the background and culture surrounding the game. Also included in the exhibits are artifacts and memorabilia throughout the history of the game. Sculptures and trophies help fans trace the roots of the game from historical to modern times. The museum inducts members annually, following the November vote of the 20 committee members.

The museum is open June through January, Monday through Friday from 10-3:00 pm. From February to May, they are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10-3:00 pm. The first Wednesday of each month they close at noon. Admission for adults 16 and older is $3, children 5-15 is $2, and those under 5 years of age are free. They offer group discounts, but call ahead as a courtesy to be sure your group can be accomodated. There is a gift shop on the premises open during museum hours.

If you are planning to visit the museum, there are a number of nearby hotels that also offer access to a variety of Baltimore's attractions. The Marriott Baltimore Waterfront, the Brookshire Inn and Suites, and the Clarion Hotel Peabody Court are close to the museum and just a short ride to Baltimore's most popular tourist destination, the Inner Harbor. The Harbor features a variety of dining and entertainment options for visitors.

You can also find a number of local establishments nearby the museum. Surrounded by some of Maryland's best known colleges, the neighborhood is safe, packed with action, and offers visitors a variety of dining options. Students and area residents love The Paper Moon Diner.

Lacrosse fans planning a trip to Maryland will not want to miss the Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Their goal is to pay homage to "America's Oldest Sport,'' and they have achieved it.