George Herman Ruth, arguably baseball’s greatest player, earned many nicknames throughout his illustrious career. The Sultan of Swat. The Colossus of Clout. The Great Bambino. But one name would follow the man for his entire career – Babe. He earned the title while participating in spring training in Fayetteville, North Carolina in 1914. Although plenty of fledgling players at the time would often be referred to as a “babe”, it was Ruth who carried the moniker to his grave.

The Babe was notorious for being the home run king, smashing 714 dingers during his 21 seasons in the major leagues. His inaugural blast came during an intersquad spring training game on March 7, 1914 at the Cape Fear Fairgrounds in Fayetteville, further commemorating his time in the area. Ruth, then playing for the Baltimore Orioles, was just 19 years old.

Today, a historical marker memorializes the site of the old Fairgrounds and The Great Bambino’s first professional dinger. The spot is now a Division of Highways facility.

Site of Babe Ruth’s First Professional Home Run: 600 Southern Ave, Fayetteville, NC 28301