Kokomo, IN is a city that deeply treasures its sporting culture and history. From famous athletes to classic venues, there are many ways to explore the rich past of sports in this community. Whether youre a seasoned sports fan or just curious about local history, these destinations will give you an insiders look at what makes Kokomo such a special place.
First stop on your journey should be Highland Park (900 W Deffenbaugh St., Kokomo), which has been home to baseball games for over 100 years. This field was once frequented by HallofFame pitcher Mordecai Brown and several other legendary players. Even today, Highland Park is still home to a team of amateur baseball players who compete during the summer months. The charm of this historic park is something every visitor should experience.
Next up is the Seiberling Mansion (1200 W Sycamore St., Kokomo), where visitors can learn about one of the most influential people behind sports development in America E.C. Seiberling himself! He started his career as part owner and general manager of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in Akron Ohio before moving into real estate development and becoming involved with Indiana basketball from 1926 until his death in 1945.
If motorsports are more your speed then head over to Grissom Air Museum (Off US31 near Peru). As well as being home base for B58 Hustler bomber aircraft operations during the cold war era it was also used as an auxiliary airfield during Indianapolis Motor Speedway practices before World War II because it had very few flights scheduled back then due its remote location adjacent to farmland full of hiding spots favored by nefarious moonshiners observing from inside their camouflaged stills hoping not get caught out when unmarked competition driving cars appeared! The nearby town of Peru, about 20 miles to the north, has long embraced auto racing and is home to a NASCARsanctioned track.
Speaking of basketball, Kokomo also boasts a rich hoops heritage thats worth exploring. Check out the Elwood Haynes Museum (1915 S Webster St., Kokomo), which houses exhibits showcasing the legendary coach Chuck Taylors career as well as his influence on modernday sneaker culture. In addition, this museum chronicles Kokomos role in early automobile manufacturing.
Finally, head over to Foster Park (721 W Superior St., Kokomo) for an afternoon of fun sports activities such as disc golfing or simply enjoy watching people play bocce ball in one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in town. This historic park was once frequented by miners who used it for recreation after finishing their grueling work shifts underground.
In conclusion, taking time to explore these top sporting events will give you insight into what makes Kokomo such a charming and welcoming community with deep roots in sports history and tradition. Dont forget your camera or your sense of adventure when embarking upon this journey through time!
Websites:
elwoodhaynesmuseum.org
cityofkokomo.org/seiberlingmansion.aspx
Twitter:
900 W Deffenbaugh St.
Kokomo, IN
United States
1200 W Sycamore St.
Kokomo, IN
United States
null null
Peru, IN
United States
1915 S Webster St.
Kokomo, IN
United States
721 W Superior St.
Kokomo, IN
United States