Born Benjamin Mooney, many people and fans knew him by his nickname Moon, the man who collected money for the Glenwood Baseball League during the games that were played at 11th and Hess Streets in the 1950s and '60s. Many Sunday games at Glenwood Field (later named Cannavino Field) saw standing room only and Moon patrolling the stands. Benjamin Moon Mooney was generally recognized as the best pass the hat collector of all time with his trademark of expressing gratitude: And I thank You.
Mooney was a first baseman for the Erie Black Diamonds until his retirement, when he joined the Umpire Corps. After a few years he began passing the hat full time at Glenwood games, and quickly became a fan favorite. Moon would slowly patrol the entire grandstand, and if someone would not contribute a coin or two for his hat, he would repeatedly clear his throat and repeat Thank You until a coin found his hat. A game wasn't complete until Moon had passed by collecting for the league.
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| Benjamin Mooney passing the hat at the Glenwood games. |