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Lawrence-Dumont
Stadium / Wichita Wranglers
| Year Opened | 1934 |
| Capacity | 6,400 (3,000 chairback seats, 3,400 bench seats ) |
| Dimensions | 344L, 401C, 312R |
| Playing Surface | Artificial turf infield, grass outfield |
| Last Visit | 2005 |
| Web Sites | www.wichitawranglers.com, www.nbcbaseball.com |
| Online Broadcasts | Yes |
| Online Ticket Sales | Yes |
| Phone | 316/267-3372 |
| Ticket Prices (2005) | Marshal / Club, $10; Sheriff / Box, $9; Deputy / Reserved, $7; Outlaw / GA, $5 |
| League | Texas League |
| Affiliation | Kansas City Royals |
| Address/Directions | 300 S. Sycamore, Wichita. Take I-135 to U.S. Hwy. 54 (also called Kellogg) and head west to Seneca Street. At Seneca Street, turn right and head north to Maple. Hang a right onto Maple heading east. Lawrence Dumont Stadium is located five blocks east of Maple and Seneca. |
| Written by: | Jim Robins |
| Rating |  |
(click on the image for a
larger version)
You will take a step back in baseball history when you visit Lawrence-Dumont Stadium, located on the southwest edge of downtown Wichita. Home to the Wichita Wranglers and the National Baseball Congress (NBC), the 1934-built ballpark features a treasure trove of baseball history.
Wichita’s long-term commitment to the facility was made clear with rededications in 1978 and 2002, followed by significant renovations in time for the 2005 season. A new, brighter color scheme matches the Wrangler’s change in uniform colors, as well as the surrounding Delano District on the edge of downtown. A larger Open Range Patio above the third base seats is now available for groups of up to 40 people.
Numerous historical plaques pay tribute to the rich history of the NBC and the Wranglers. Learn about Johnny Damon’s 1995 stint with the Wranglers. In 1982, Roger Clemens pitched for Hutchinson Broncs at the NBC, going 6-0 with a 2.16 ERA. Back in 1964, Graig Nettles managed to go only 5-for-26 at NBC while playing in the outfield – hardly an indication that he would become a Major League gold glover at third base.
The quality artwork accompanying much of the historical exhibits was done by the Wichita-based Greteman Group which has also assisted in stadium renovations in Pittsburgh. Be sure to check out the NBC Walk of Fame located beyond the right-field fence along McLean Avenue. Lawrence Dumont is named for Wichita pioneer Robert E. Lawrence and Raymond “Hap” Dumont who founded the NBC in 1931.
One unavoidable concession to the heavy use of the ballfield –- including more than 80 NBC games in barely more than two weeks -– is the Astroturf infield, which seems a little out of place in a venue steeped in history.
The stadium is
especially kid-friendly with various play-area
activities available, as well as two entertaining
mascots: a horse named Wilbur T. Wrangler and
ornery Angus the Outlaw.
(click on the image for a
larger version)
Hotels nearby include
the Hiatt with a good view of the field, and the
Radisson within walking distance of both the
stadium and Museums on the River. Numerous
budget-conscious choices are available beyond the
central business district, including the Kansas
Inn north of downtown.
As for watching a baseball game, the sight lines
are especially good from the infield, and there is
a generous standing area with good views down the
right field line near “Ye Olde Beer Garden.”
General admission seats are not backed, but
cushioned chairbacks can be rented for $2.
A good variety of stadium food is available,
highlighted by Rick’s BBQ featuring ribs, shredded
pork, hot links, half-pound burgers and
cheeseburgers – all priced at $5; and you have the
choice of six sauces -- including a low-carb
version.
(click on the image for a
larger version)
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