The L.D. Washington and Nathaniel Cannon Wall of Honor has been established to recognize the contributions of leaders who have shaped youth sports in East Austin, particularly through the East Austin Youth Foundation and the Greater East Austin Youth Association. These organizations have played a significant role in creating opportunities for Black youth during and after segregation.
Located at 1183 Chestnut Ave. in Rosewood Neighborhood Park, the wall is inside the Britton, Durst, Howard and Spence Building. This building was renamed in 2011 to honor four community leaders, including Lawrence M. Britton, Sr. and James Howard, who were instrumental in founding the East Austin Youth Foundation. Their efforts provided a safe environment for young athletes at a time when Black children were not allowed to participate in white leagues.
James Howard later worked with Nathaniel Cannon to establish the Greater East Austin Youth Association. Cannon has served as treasurer since its inception in 1975 and has organized the association’s annual Juneteenth celebration for more than 25 years.
L.D. Washington was another key figure honored by the wall. Known as a coach and mentor, Washington’s impact extended beyond athletics. He received the Al Edwards Juneteenth Un-Sung Hero Award in 2001 and was inducted into the Prairie View Interscholastic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2016.
The Wall of Honor was conceived by Kenneth D. Thompson, Sr., a former player and parent involved with the East Austin Youth Foundation. He collaborated with Lee Dawson, Jr., president of the Greater East Austin Youth Association and also a former player, to realize this project. Funding came from the Austin Parks Foundation’s Austin City Limits Music Festival Grants Program.
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