Nation's First Jackie Robinson Park Declared a Historic Landmark

Located in the community of Sun Village, Jackie Robinson Park was initially approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors in 1958 and officially dedicated in 1965 during a ceremony that included the attendance of the legendary Jackie Robinson. It was the first park in the nation named after Robinson and was spearheaded by the Sun Village Women’s Club which donated the land for the park. The park is also associated with events related to the development of Sun Village by African Americans seeking employment and housing unrestricted by discriminatory practices.

As reported in this article by the Antelope Valley Press, the park has just been designated as a "County Landmark" by the Board of Supervisors. The park is eligible for the designation because it is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of the history of Sun Village and Los Angeles County. Supervisor Kathryn Barger said, “It’s fitting that Sun Village’s historic Jackie Robinson Park will be protected and preserved thanks to its new county landmark designation. I take my responsibility of being a good steward of historic treasures in unincorporated communities seriously. That mission ensures future generations can be exposed to and appreciate the contributions of those who preceded them.”