Exploring Lawrence, MAs Sporting History: A Journey Through Time and Culture

Lawrence, Massachusetts is a city rich in history and culture. Part of that heritage includes a vibrant sports scene that spans back over 150 years. From baseball to boxing to bicycle racing, the city has seen it all. Here are some of the best places to explore Lawrences sporting history while also experiencing the diverse, gritty, multicultural aspects of its people.

1. Pacific Mills Baseball Grounds (108 Amesbury St): This historic stadium was once home to one of Lawrences early baseball teams The Pacific Mills Baseball Club. The team played many memorable games on this field during their reign from 1864 until around 1895 when they disbanded due to disagreements between management and players.

2. Van Del Park (154 Beacon Street): Often referred as The Madison Square Garden or The Fenway Park of its time, Van Del Park hosted countless local events with renown athletes such as Harry Wills (heavyweight boxer) and Jack Johnson (first African American heavyweight world champion). It was also known for hosting highly competitive womens basketball games until circa mid1920s.

3. Essex County Velodrome / Riverside Speedway Eyeing an innovative mode of transportation? You can travel back in time by visiting what used to be called Essex County Velodrome which eventually became Riverside Speedway after transforming into carracing venue post World War II era(200 Merrimack River Road).

By exploring these locations you will experience not just the fascinating sporting achievements but also capture glimpses of how Lawrence grew as an industrial boomtown spiraling into a mill town governed by busy streets crammed with ethnic vendors showcasing myriad cultural artifacts reflecting Italian Americans(Paciffic)), Jewish community(Van Del), French Canadians(Essex) along with other immigrant groups who had come seeking better opportunities in America at turnofthecentury.

From the Pacific Mills Baseball Grounds to Van Del Park and Riverside Speedway, Lawrences sporting history is colorful, diverse, and fascinating. By visiting these sites, you can take a journey through time while also experiencing the many cultures that have helped shape this unique city.

Websites:

www.cityoflawrence.com

www.lawrencehistory.org

Twitter:

@Lawrence_History