Exploring Sports History in Wilmington, NC

Wilmington, NC has a rich sporting history that reflects its charming, coastal, vibrant, eclectic and friendly laidback way of life. Whether youre a sports enthusiast or simply looking to learn more about the areas past, there are plenty of options for exploring this aspect of local culture.

Start your journey by visiting The Bellamy Mansion Museum (503 Market St., Wilmington). This former antebellum mansion provides insight into North Carolinas complicated relationship with slavery and racism during the 1800s. Here you can see where top athletes of the time would have mingled with plantation owners and discussed their latest athletic feats.

Next stop is Legion Stadium (2149 Carolina Beach Rd., Wilmington), which opened in 1937 as part of President Roosevelts New Deal Program. It was home to minor league baseball teams through most of its existence until it became a permanent soccer stadium. The stadium saw significant change when Jackie Robinson played here on his tour around America before he joined Major League Baseball (204 South Front St., Wilmington).

Finally explore oneofakind skating rinks like Jelly Beans Family Skate Center (5216 Oleander Dr. #105107) at Independence Mall , which first opened doors in 1952 . Skating remained popular throughout every decade since then among locals who were eager for an indoor outlet especiallyin summer months or when winter weather interfered outside activities.There are other locations but not all offer public sessions We recommend calling ahead so that you dont miss out on available ice times.

These three destinations provide fascinating glimpses into sport history within the context greater historical moments while still reflecting aspects that make up todays community .

Websites:

The Bellamy Mansion Museum: bellamymansion.org

Legion Stadium: legionstadium.com

Jelly Beans: jellybeansnc.com