The City of Carrollton’s Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC) will unveil new biographical signage for one of our community’s legendary citizens at his namesake park in a recognition ceremony on Saturday, October 8.

Jimmy Porter (1900-1984) played baseball in the Negro American League during the time the sport was racially segregated. For more than 50 years afterward, he taught generations of Carrollton youth not only how to play, but how to cultivate a deep-rooted love for the game. One of those youths includes Dallas native Keith Moreland who went on to have success in Major League Baseball in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Moreland will attend the ceremony to remember Porter and share stories of their time working and training together.

“Jimmy Porter Park has been a tremendous asset to our community for generations now,” Councilmember Doug Hrbacek said. “We are all proud of the recent investments made at this facility and are pleased that HPAC has worked to pass the story of Jimmy Porter on to future generations. The baseball fields at this park should always be there for kids to play some ball—that’s what Jimmy Porter was all about.”

The ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. at the newly updated Jimmy Porter Park (1871 Sherwood Lane at Josey Lane). A pick-up game of baseball will follow the ceremony. All ages are welcome to attend and enjoy the new park amenities including a new playground structure, all updated equipment, a newer, safer wood fiber playing surface, and more swings including a multi-generational swing for inclusive fun. The sprawling 5-acre park contains grills, tables, restrooms, water fountains, a multi-purpose court, two lighted sports fields, and a new pavilion built in 2015.

For more information on HPAC projects, visit cityofcarrollton.com/hpac.