Get to Know the Man Behind 'Hap' Bruno Field
Mario 'Hap' Bruno's granddaughter, Christine Herlin, explains the significance of Bruno's life in Chicago Heights.
Ever wonder how Hap Bruno Field got its name?
The baseball field is named after Mario "Hap" Bruno, a Chicago Heights legend known for his baseball accomplishments as both a manager and a player, and for his community involvement.
In this video, Christine Herlin, Bruno's granddaughter and a second-grade teacher at Greenbriar School, reflects on her grandfather.
According to Italian-American scholar Dominic Candeloro's Mostly Melted/Still Connected: The Marchegiani in Chicago Heights 1893-1997, Bruno came to the United States from Le Marche, Italy, in 1904. He had to overcome many obstacles as a child, including the death of his father, but he thrived in Chicago Heights.
In the 1920s and 1930s, Bruno was both a manager and a third baseman on the Chicago Heights Athletics, according to Candeloro. He also was involved in the community as a businessman.
What's in a name? History? Legend? Tell us what you think of Mario 'Hap' Bruno's life and impact on the Chicago Heights community.
Tell us in the comments.
Christine Herlin
11:11 am on Friday, December 24, 2010
Chris and David,
Again, I cannot thank you both enough for keeping the memory of my grandfather alive with your article. This was a wonderful Christmas gift to my family and me! Keep up the good work, and continue to tell the stories of our ancestors who helped mold Chicago Heights. You have PLENTY of people to choose from! Thank you! Christine Herlin
Vicki
12:47 pm on Friday, December 24, 2010
I am ONE of Christine's sisters and have found such happiness in this article. Grandpa Bruno was truly a remarkable man and having Christine share her memories was a wonderful choice. Chicago Heights is filled with so many stories and remarkable people anbd I so loved reading this and viewing this on this Christmas Eve in my Grandfathers memory. A wonderful tribute.
Vicki Pettavino
Patricia Bruno Panici
10:16 am on Wednesday, January 23, 2013
I am also ONE of Christine's sisters and want to thank you for this beautiful story of a GREAT man my Grandfather. I also named one of my sons Lucas HAP after his Great Grandfather so that when asked about his name I could share my Grandfathers story over and over. Thank you for sahring it with the world.
Patricia Bruno Panici