Durkin Ballfield Rededicated to Honor WWI Veteran
LOWELL — More than a century after Durkin Ballfield was first dedicated, the park has been rededicated with a new stone and plaque in tribute to its namesake, John L. Durkin.
Family Legacy Rediscovered
As a child, Jim Durkin often passed by the ballfield on Chelmsford Street, aware it bore his family name but unaware of the story behind it. Years later, his research revealed that the field honored his great-uncle, John L. “Jack” Durkin, and explained why Jim’s father always insisted the field’s name should never change.
Remembering John “Jack” Durkin
Jack Durkin grew up in Lowell and, like many Durkins across generations, worked as a printer. He was also employed by The Courier Citizen, a local newspaper later acquired by The Sun. Outside of work, Jack was a semi-professional baseball player for a team known as The Lincolns.
Military Service and Sacrifice
At 28, in April 1918, Jack enlisted in the U.S. Army. He completed basic training at Camp Devens before being sent to England in July, and shortly after, to France.
“From there, he marched through France, and like my uncle Brendan did in World War II, marched through the small country of Luxembourg enroute to Germany,” said Jim during Saturday’s rededication ceremony at the ballfield.
A Century of Remembrance
The new monument ensures that John L. Durkin’s service and legacy remain part of Lowell’s living memory, reminding future generations of his contributions both at home and abroad.
Author’s summary: A century-old Lowell ballfield now bears a new stone and plaque, honoring World War I soldier John L. Durkin and preserving his family’s enduring link to the city.