Len Martin and the Three Rivers Stadium Markers

This past Thursday, April 17, marked the 70th anniversary of Roberto Clemente's first major league hit.  This date was chosen to dedicate the permanent markers that were placed on the sidewalks along General Robinson Street to mark the precise locations of the pitcher's mound and second base at Three Rivers Stadium.  A home plate marker was placed and dedicated a few years ago. (History lesson, kids: Three Rivers Stadium stood on land between PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium.) 

Lots of dignitaries were on hand to celebrate the occasion.  A couple of members of the Pennsylvania State Legislature were there, and deservedly so, since they helped secure some state funding for the project.  Roberto Clemente Jr and Steve Blass were there and spoke, and their presence was deserved for obvious reasons.  Also speaking was Travis Williams, President of the Pittsburgh Pirates.  It should be noted that the Pirates contributed ZERO DOLLARS, as in NOTHING in support of this project, a fact that should surprise no one who follows this team closely.

However, it must be noted that the events of this day would not have happened without the vision and the dog-on-a-bone persistence of my friend Len Martin.  It was Len who assisted in finding the precise locations of home plate, the pitchers's mound, and second base.  It was Len who designed the markers and helped in their fabrication.  And it was Len who persisted in raising money and being a general thorn in the side of all of the players involved to make sure that this project got done.  This was Len's baby from start to finish.

Some photos of the day.

The Monuments Themselves

Len Martin addresses the crowd

Roberto Clemente Jr

Bob Walk and Steve Blass pay a visit to their old "office"

Len with some of his closest pals

Dennis DeValeria, Dan Bonk. Andy Terrick, Len,

Roberto Jr, Craig Britcher, Fred Egler, Bob Sproule

Hey! Who is that guy seeking advice from The Grandstander?

One more history lesson.  A permanent marker also is in place at the location of old Exposition Park, where the Pirates played from 1890 to1909 and where the first World Series was played in 1903.  It is in the shadow of PNC Park in a parking lot along Mazeroski Way and right across from the Southern Tier Brewing Co. restaurant.  That was Len Martin's project as well