During the 1970s, the quiet coastal town of Ponce Inlet played host to one of baseball’s greatest dynasties: the Cincinnati Reds, known to fans everywhere as the Big Red Machine. Thanks to the hotel’s owners, Louis and Louise Nippert who also owned the Reds the historic Pacetti Hotel became a Spring Training retreat for some of baseball’s brightest stars.
Each year, the team would escape to the peaceful shores of Ponce Inlet to relax, fish, and enjoy the hospitality of hotel caretakers Ann Caneer and Billy Joe Potts, who were known for throwing unforgettable seaside gatherings. Picture this: live music drifting through the salty air, players shucking oysters on the dock, and plates piled high with fresh local seafood. It was baseball’s golden era lived out right here in Volusia County.
The Rise of the Big Red Machine
Under the guidance of General Manager Bob Howsam and Manager Sparky Anderson, the Cincinnati Reds transformed into a powerhouse team that dominated the 1970s. Anderson, who became the youngest team manager in baseball, was known for his unmatched leadership and understanding of the game.
With Pete Rose as captain and a star-studded lineup that included Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Tony Perez, George Foster, Dave Concepcion, Cesar Geronimo, and Ken Griffey Sr., the Reds became unstoppable.
Known as “The Great 8,” these players formed one of the most successful teams in baseball history, winning World Series championships in 1975 and 1976. Many members of the team including Bench, Perez, and Morgan went on to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Though the Big Red Machine era came to an end in the late ’70s, their legacy and their connection to the Pacetti Hotel continues to be celebrated today.
Celebrate Baseball History in Ponce Inlet
This Saturday, November 15th from 10 AM to 3 PM, the Pacetti Hotel Museum invites you to step back in time for a special event:
⚾️ Baseball at the Hotel: Celebrating the Big Red Machine ⚾️
Experience the excitement of the Reds’ championship years through:
- Historic presentations about the 1975 & 1976 World Series seasons
- Guest appearances from figures connected to the Reds’ legacy
- The unveiling of a temporary exhibit featuring rare Cincinnati Reds memorabilia
- Stories from the team’s time in Ponce Inlet and more!
This event is included with general admission, making it one of the most affordable local events in Volusia County for families, baseball fans, and history lovers alike.
So if you’re searching for educational things to do near Daytona Beach or a unique weekend event in Ponce Inlet, come celebrate where legends stayed and stories were made at the Pacetti Hotel Museum.
📍 Pacetti Hotel Museum, Ponce Inlet, Florida
🕓 Saturday, November 15th | 10 AM – 3 PM
📧 For more info, contact: education@ponceinlet.org