The unveiling of the Bradenton Nine Devils Historical Marker at LECOM Park

The City of Bradenton proudly joined the Bradenton Marauders, community leaders, and local partners to unveil the Bradenton Nine Devils Historical Marker at LECOM Park—a powerful tribute to a team that made history during segregation and played in the Florida Negro League from 1937 to 1956.

The ceremony was a moving moment of recognition for the African American athletes who once barnstormed Florida’s cities, playing for packed, segregated crowds without the acknowledgment they deserved—until now.

The new marker, located at the main entrance of LECOM Park, is part of the African American Heritage Trail, an initiative led by the Boxser Diversity Initiative and Manatee Community Foundation to preserve and honor Black history in Manatee County.

The unveiling featured remarks from:

Mayor Gene Brown

Councilwoman Pam Coachman

Judge Charles Williams (BDI)

Dan Boxser (BDI)

Veronica Thames (MCF)

Lydia Copeland McNeal, honoring family legacy

Councilwoman Jayne Kocher attended the ceremony in support of this historic moment.

Special thanks to the Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders for their enthusiastic partnership and commitment to honoring local history.

Photos courtesy of the City of Bradenton