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Grand opening held for Crowe Recreation Complex

By Rose Hooper
violins Vice Chief Carroll "Pee Wee" Crowe (left) thanked the Eastern Band of Cherokee for naming its new recreation complex in honor of his father, the late John A. Crowe, who died in March at age 83.

A grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the 26-acre park was held Friday, Nov. 2. The first softball game was played there Friday night.

John Crowe, 22nd principal chief of the Eastern Band since tribal reorganization in 1869, provided more than 20 years of experience in tribal government. He was principal chief from 1973-83. Throughout his life, he was active in youth sports.

The park features three lighted softball fields, one lighted baseball field, a concession stand, restrooms and an indoor press box.

Located near the intersection of U.S. 74 and U.S. 441, the park will serve the surrounding community, as well as the tribe, said park manager Ronald "Chumper" Walker.
Ball field "It is my honor to stand before you to give you a sincere 'thank you' for naming this after my father," said the vice chief, who threw the first pitch. "He would have loved to have seen a ball game here, but I'm sure he is around and is noticing."

Brandon Stephens served as master of ceremonies.

- Herald photos by Marina Robbins

Back to Archive: 11/08/01.