The screens were installed in 1878 along the grandstand section directly behind the catcher, an area known as the "slaughter pens" for all the foul ball injuries that occurred there. Renovations Before the 1884 season, a few minor improvements on the park were made. The reporters' area of the grand stand was supplied with comfortable cushions by former team president Flint, which all of the reporters noted with gratitude. A score slate was also placed in left field to show the Boston scores by inning as they came in over the telegraph. Finally, "some elaborate pictures have been obtained by Director Allen, measuring 7 x , giving a life-size illustration of the diamond and a game in progress, which will be displayed on prominent boards on schedule days." The End of Messer Street Grounds The park housed the minor league Providence Grays of the Eastern League in 1886, but the park was too large for the pitiful attendance that the team drew, and by early June the park was once again empty. Rumors began circulating about the sale of the park in September 1886. On February 16, 1887, trustee Greene finally sold off the property that the Messer Street Grounds sat on, in a deed to the Franklin Institute for Savings. The exact demolition date of the park is unknown, but must have been at some point during the next few months. By the end of the year, the subdivided plots were selling off at a rapid clip, and houses started to spring up where the old ball park used to stand. External links Old BallParks: Messer Street Grounds, Providence, RI 19th Century Major Leagues (and ballparks) References Sports venues in Rhode Island Defunct baseball venues in the United States Sports in Providence, Rhode Island History of Providence, Rhode Island Buildings and structures in Providence, Rhode Island Providence Grays Baseball venues in Rhode Island