Historical Marker for Bradenton Nine Devils to Launch the African American Heritage Trail in Manatee County
Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) and the Boxser Diversity Initiative, in collaboration with a coalition of community partners, are proud to announce the unveiling of a new historical marker honoring the legacy of the Bradenton Nine Devils. This special event will take place on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at LECOM Park (1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205).
The historical marker commemorates the Bradenton Nine Devils, an African American semi-professional baseball team that contributed greatly to Bradenton’s sports and cultural history. The marker represents the first step in the creation of the African American Heritage Trail, a dynamic and inclusive initiative celebrating African American achievement, culture, and contributions in Manatee County.
This trail is envisioned as a growing network of historical markers and heritage sites, designed to tell a more complete and authentic story of the African American experience. The unveiling event will include special guests, including family members of former Nine Devils players.
Lydia Copeland-McNeal, daughter of player James “Son” Copeland explained: “The marker gives me great pride, knowing that the Bradenton Nine Devils have not been forgotten, and they now will have a permanent place in this community, where all can see. I wish that the people knew how much these men sacrificed to bring so much joy to the community of Bradenton. They played for the love of the game, not the money. If my father was here, I think he would have the biggest smile and say to the community: ‘Thank you for remembering us. We sacrificed a lot, but this moment right here was all worth it.’”
The initiative is just getting started, with aspirations to add more markers and recognition of heritage sites throughout the county. Funding is essential to continue expanding the trail, and MCF has established a dedicated fund to support projects like this that enhance the cultural and historical fabric of the community. To donate to this fund, visit MCF’s donation page and select Community Inclusion & Empowerment Fund.
“As one of the founding members of the African American Heritage Trail in Manatee County, we are proud to support the important work being done to bring the Trail to fruition,” said Julie Matus, Executive Director of The Boxser Diversity Initiative.
MCF and the Boxser Diversity Initiative are privileged to collaborate on this project with supportive community partners, including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Bradenton Marauders, the City of Bradenton Community Redevelopment Area, Family Heritage House, Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce, Manatee County Clerk of Court Historical Resources, Manatee County Public Library System, Oaktree Community Outreach, RECESS Education, Reflections of Manatee, and Catherine Ferrer of Place 4 Consulting.
“As the only community foundation in Manatee serving the entire county, we are privileged to have an opportunity to honor its rich history and fulfill the role of convener around significant and systemic needs, such as the inclusion or everyone’s story, which makes our community stronger,” said Veronica Thames, CEO of MCF. “We are grateful to the many partners who responded to the call and collaborated to make the African American heritage trail possible.”
MCF’s Board Task Force which is dedicated to creating an inclusive and empowered community,
said, “When we fully embrace a culture of diversity, inclusion and equity, we are more successful in all of our essential business functions—from attracting donors to responding to community needs.”
LECOM Park, where the unveiling will take place, is steeped in history as the third-oldest stadium currently used by a Major League team. Its historical significance provides a fitting backdrop to honor the contributions of the Nine Devils and launch this important initiative.
“We are proud to be part of this memorable occasion in Manatee County’s history,” said Jeff Podobnik, Vice President, Florida and Dominican Republic Operations for the Pittsburgh Pirates. “The Nine Devils are an important part of the rich history of baseball in Bradenton and are very deserving of this recognition that celebrates their legacy. It is an honor to have this historical marker installed at LECOM Park, making us a small a part of preserving and sharing their story with our community.”
Due to limited space and parking considerations, an RSVP is required for this event. Anyone interested in attending the unveiling of this historical marker on February 25th can RSVP for the event.
For more information about the African American Heritage Trail or to support this initiative, please visit www.aahtmanatee.org.