J. P. Small Memorial Stadium

J. P. Small Memorial Stadium: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions in Jacksonville

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

J. P. Small Memorial Stadium, nestled in Jacksonville’s historic Durkeeville neighborhood, stands as a monument to baseball and African American heritage. Since its establishment in 1912 (originally Barrs Field), the stadium has played a pivotal role in both local and national sports history, witnessing the rise of Negro League legends, the breaking of baseball’s color barrier, and the ongoing evolution of a vibrant community hub. Recent renovations have revitalized the site, blending preservation with modern amenities, and ensuring its legacy endures for generations. Whether you are a history buff, sports enthusiast, or local resident, this guide provides all you need to know about visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, and nearby attractions, as well as the stadium’s continuing cultural significance (City of Jacksonville; National Park Service; News4Jax).

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Construction

Built in 1912 as Barrs Field, the stadium originally featured a wooden structure, later upgraded in 1936 to a steel and concrete grandstand as part of New Deal modernization efforts. The site quickly became a focal point for amateur and professional baseball, reflecting the sport’s growing popularity in the South (City of Jacksonville).

Negro League Baseball and Segregation

J. P. Small Memorial Stadium played a crucial role during the Jim Crow era, serving as home to the Jacksonville Red Caps of the Negro American League in the late 1930s and early 1940s. The stadium hosted numerous barnstorming games featuring iconic players like Satchel Paige and Josh Gibson, providing a stage for athletic excellence and community gathering during segregation (Negro Leagues Baseball Museum; Visit Jacksonville).

Integration and Major League Milestones

A defining moment in the stadium’s history occurred in 1953 when Hank Aaron played for the Jacksonville Braves, marking a key milestone in the integration of southern baseball and the South Atlantic League (MLB.com; Smithsonian Magazine). The stadium thus became a symbol of progress and social change during the Civil Rights Movement.

Preservation, Renovation, and Community Role

Renamed in 1980 to honor James P. Small, a revered local educator and coach, the stadium has undergone significant restorations, including recent upgrades in 2025 that added artificial turf, improved lighting, and new amenities. These efforts, funded by local and national preservation organizations, ensure the site remains both a living museum and a vital community resource (News4Jax; National Trust for Historic Preservation).

Recognition and Historic Designation

In 2013, the stadium was added to the National Register of Historic Places, affirming its importance as one of the nation’s last surviving Negro League ballparks and a testament to the struggle for equality in American sports (National Park Service).

Visiting J. P. Small Memorial Stadium

Location and Directions

Address: 1701 Myrtle Avenue North, Jacksonville, FL 32209
Parking: Free on-site and street parking
Transit: Served by Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) bus routes; check JTA’s site for up-to-date schedules

Visiting Hours

General Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (museum open during events and by appointment)
Special Events: Extended hours during games and festivals
Note: Always check the official website or Visit Jacksonville for the latest updates.

Admission and Tickets

General Admission: Free for most events and museum visits
Special Events: Tickets for college, minor league, or commemorative games may be required
Ticket Purchase: Online via Edward Waters University or the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp sites, or at the stadium box office

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Ramps, accessible restrooms, and reserved seating
Facilities: Upgraded restrooms and new family-friendly playground (under phase two renovations)
Assistance: Contact the stadium office in advance for specific accommodations

The Museum Experience

Highlights

Exhibits: Memorabilia from the Jacksonville Red Caps, tributes to Hank Aaron, Satchel Paige, and James P. Small, and displays on baseball’s role in civil rights
Interactive Features: Vintage gloves/uniforms, digital archives, and Buck O’Neil statue outside
Hours: Open during stadium events and by appointment; group tours available through the Parks & Recreation Department

Game Day and Community Events

Regular Games: Home to Edward Waters University and Stanton College Prep teams
Special Events: Negro League commemorative games, youth tournaments, baseball clinics, and historical lectures
Atmosphere: Family-friendly, with classic ballpark fare and opportunities to explore the museum during events

Recent and Future Renovations

Major Upgrades (2025)

Artificial Turf: Enables year-round play and diverse community activities
Lighting: Enhanced for evening games and extended use
Dugouts and Fencing: Modernized for safety and comfort
Community Involvement: Youth clinics and engagement with local schools (News4Jax; Hoodline)

Phase Two: Coming Soon

Modern Restroom and Concession Facilities
Stand-Alone Museum Space: “The Legend of Black Baseball,” curated with the Durkeeville Historical Society
Playground and Family Enhancements
Aspirations: Hosting Major League Baseball events and expanding educational programming

Nearby Attractions

Ritz Theatre and LaVilla Museum: African American cultural history (Visit Jacksonville)
Kingsley Plantation: Historic site exploring the region’s past
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens: Art, history, and scenic gardens
Springfield Historic District: Architecture and local dining

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for frequent games and pleasant weather
Photographs: Permitted for casual use; professional photography requires advance permission
Safety: Daytime visits are recommended; exercise standard precautions at evening events

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the stadium’s visiting hours?
Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (check website for event-specific times)

Is there an admission fee?
General admission is free; some events may require tickets.

Is the stadium accessible?
Yes, with ramps, accessible restrooms, and dedicated seating.

How do I book a museum tour?
Contact the City of Jacksonville Parks & Recreation Department or use the official website.

Is parking available?
Yes, free on-site and street parking.

Are guided tours offered?
Yes, by appointment and during scheduled community events.

Visuals and Interactive Media

Explore virtual tours and photo galleries on the official website. Alt text includes “J. P. Small Memorial Stadium visiting hours,” “Negro Leagues baseball museum,” and similar keywords for accessibility.

Summary and Final Tips

J. P. Small Memorial Stadium is a unique destination where sports history and cultural heritage converge. Recent renovations have preserved its historic charm while adding modern amenities, making it accessible and engaging for all visitors. Whether attending a game, exploring the museum, or enjoying community events, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, utilize public transit or on-site parking, and explore nearby attractions for a full Jacksonville experience.

Stay connected by downloading the Audiala app, following official social media channels, and checking city resources for up-to-date information on visiting hours, tickets, and special events. Immerse yourself in the local legacy of resilience, unity, and baseball history at this remarkable Jacksonville landmark.