Working at Chicago's Thillens Stadium, for Peanuts at 8 years old, in 1968.

The History of Thillens Stadium, Little League Baseball Park in the West Rogers Park Neighborhood of the West Ridge Community in Chicago.

PURCHASE HERE

My thoughts as an eight-year-old boy.

When I think of Thillens Stadium at 6404 N Kedzie Avenue in Chicago, the Little League Baseball and Adult Softball Park located in the West Rogers Park Neighborhood of the West Ridge Community in Chicago, my thoughts always turn to Mr. Mel Thillens, Sr. "I have a couple of minutes. You want to work at Thillens Stadium for the summer?" Mr. Thillens says.

I'm Neil Gale. I shook his hand. I live four blocks away." I said.

"I'm running a few minutes late," says  Mr. Thillens, "my previous meeting ran a bit over. Take a seat, young man, and tell me why you're interested in working at Thillens Stadium?" [Today it's named: "The Stadium at Devon & Kedzie." Owned by the Chicago Park District.] 

This is what I remember saying, in my 8-year-old vocabulary:

"I'm drawn to Thillens Stadium not just as a workplace, but as a living landmark woven into the fabric of Chicago’s history. The energy of game days, the pride of local teams, and the enduring legacy of youth sports create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that brings people together. I’d be honored to contribute to that experience—helping uphold a tradition that celebrates community, teamwork, and the joy of the game."

"I thrive in hands-on, fast-paced environments where collaboration and customer service are essential. Whether it’s guiding fans to their seats, assisting with concessions, or helping prepare the field for play, I’m eager to support the stadium’s operations and ensure every visitor leaves with a great memory. Being part of the Thillens team would be both a privilege and a chance to give back to a place that means so much to the city—and to me."

Note: It cost Mr. Thillens $6 million to build this park to his complete satisfaction, and a substantial amount of money is spent on improvements and maintenance each year. 

And, YES! Mr. Thillens was thorough. I could hear him talking to or disguising things with the staff by the concession stand, just a few feet from the elevated announcers' booth. He never raised his voice. What I remember at 8 years old is how Mr. Thillens treated me with dignity, respect, and kindness. It was the first time I felt genuinely confident and self-aware. 

On very hot days, he would bring ice-cold beverages to the announcers' booth. I was part of his family, at least that's how I felt at the time. 

Written by Neil Gale, Ph.D.

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