In 1937, the Bradenton Nine Devils Emerged onto the Field for Their Inaugural Game

Bradenton Nine Devils, 1948

The Bradenton Nine Devils, an emblematic Black semi-professional baseball team, commenced their journey in 1937 at McKechnie Field (now known as LECOM Park) in Bradenton. The team’s origin is steeped in triumph; they secured victories in their first nine matches, earning their moniker “Nine Devils.” Throughout their tenure, they competed across Florida, challenging other teams in the Negro League from Miami to Daytona Beach. However, with desegregation allowing Black athletes entry into the major leagues, the team disbanded in 1956, marking the end of a significant era.

A historic marker has since been erected at LECOM Park to pay tribute to the Nine Devils. This commemorative effort is a fundamental part of the African American Heritage Trail—an initiative spearheaded by the Boxser Diversity Initiative, Manatee Community Foundation, the Bradenton Marauders, and the Pittsburgh Pirates, among others. This initiative aims to celebrate and acknowledge Black culture and its contributions within Manatee County.