The City of Greenville reopens the historic Black Mayberry Baseball Park
- Charles Reams 1
- Aug 28
- 2 min read
On Thursday, it was a grand reopening of the historic Mayberry Baseball Park, founded in 1925
A host of city officials, donors, construction personnel, state and local elected leaders, and fans were on hand for the speeches, photoshoots, hand smacking, and hugs.
There was also free ice cream, popcorn, and drinks.
Craig and Vicki Brown were the main donors. The crowd warmly welcomed the Brown family and gladly listened to their words.
Other donors were Velda and Jackson Hughes, Pepsi Cola of Greenville, DLR group, Krish V. Patel, Waldrop Plumbing Heating Air, Treble, Priority One, and Masstar Signs.
The $3.2 million standard youth baseball field was completed by Harper General Contractors in about six months.
The ball-field features a manicured grass field, lights, home and visitors' dugouts, batting cages, pitching warm-up area, press box, concession stand, scoreboard, and covered seating for 100 spectators. It also includes a 60-foot base path and a 220-foot outfield fence.
Mayberry Park is not a standalone park, but it is part of the 60-acre Unity Park. Originally, it was 15 acres, but John Whiteside said today during his speech that it is 6 or 7 acres.
The restored park is the brainchild of Whiteside. He called the city several times, got an appointment, and when he first went down to talk about his plan, he went alone. Others later joined him.
Whiteside was quick to praise the warm response and eventual support he received from the city, even though at first, he joked, the mayor initially needed pushing.
There was unanimous praise for the funding and guidance provided by the Brown family and the other donors.
Whiteside talked about the Negro Baseball League and its legendary players, which he remembers fondly.
He said many started in this field as children and went on to accomplish fame.
Craig Brown, owner of the Greenville Drive, said he gladly embraced the idea of restoring the park when first presented to him.
His whole family, including his five grandchildren, supports baseball. Though partial, he said his grandchildren are pretty good at baseball.
For many, it was a grand reunion and reopening. For others, it was an occasion to meet and greet movers and shakers in the community, partnering on joint ventures.
But for all, it was an occasion to join in the fun of supporting baseball and encouraging children to grow up with good habits, showing respect for others, and working with one another in peace and harmony.
