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Abstract
This thesis will establish a methodology to define southeastern American minor league baseball parks as cultural landscapes worthy of preservation. The process defines applicable ground rules for elements of a ballfield. Historically significant ballparks that illuminate the evolution of the landscape will be identified. Specific ballparks will be used as case studies and analyzed by comparing relevant physical features. Analysis of Rickwood Field will be conducted. Documentation from the Historic American Building Survey along with field research and photo documentation will assess the characteristics of the park demonstrating baseball parks act as physical representations of heritage, memory, and cultural history. This thesis will put forth the concomitant idea that baseball can and should be identified as an American intangible cultural heritage. Memories of place associated with the ballpark and baseball will reinforce the significance of these cultural landscapes, making them worthy of preservation, and perpetuating their legacy.