A judge in Kansas Friday rejected a request from a baseball historian to block plans to demolish a baseball grandstand with a rich history. Montgomery County Judge Jeffrey Gossard denied the request to save the Shulthis Stadium in Independence, Ks.

Baseball historian Mark Metcalf had hoped to block demolition of the facility, which is believed to be the site of organized baseball’s first-ever night game under permanent lights.

But the judge gave the green light to city and school district officials who have sought demolition. Mr Metcalf had invited a State Historical Preservation Officer to visit the grandstand Aug. 8 as the site was being considered for placement on the National Register of Historic Places.

Judge Gossard said he decided not to interfere with the plans to demolish and deferred to the elected members of the school board, city council and other committees who best represent the interests of the community.