Jasper Steers Historical Marker

Elmer Simmons was a local logging contractor and avid baseball fan. This interest led him to not only create the team but to also build the stadium. The African American entrepreneur bought everything needed from Louisiana, including the lights, bleachers, dressing rooms, and concession stands. At the time, the stadium was considered state-of-the art and was located along what would be called "Steer Stadium Road." In the coming years, the Jasper Steers played around the country as well as Canada. The players believed they could play against any professional team.

From 1954 to 1955, the local white high school baseball team, the Jasper High School Bulldogs, also played their games at Mr. Simmons' field since they did have their own baseball field. Interestingly, one of the team's pitchers played on the Steers' team for a year. Another local Black team, the Blue Jays, was formed in the coming years. As noted above, the Steers played until 1961. By that time, professional teams had desegregated but Southern minor leagues continued to draw the color line. Many of the players went on to become successful members of society and some were able to make it to the Majors. The Jasper County Historical Commission, with assistance from the Jasper County Historical Society Museum, led the effort to research and apply for the historical marker, which was installed in 2014.

"Jasper Steers." The Historical Marker Database. Accessed November 6, 2020. https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=128585.

Lout, Mike. "Jasper Steers cut the trail for others to follow." KJAS.com. November 1, 2015. https://www.kjas.com/news/local_news/article_dfb756c6-80c5-11e5-943f-ef2855ecf4b3.html.

"Special Announcement." Jasper County Historical Commission [Facebook Page]. November 7, 2014. https://www.facebook.com/jaspercountyhc/posts/special-announcementthe-jasper-steers-baseball-team-has-been-awarded-a-texas-sta/1570940249792373.