Type: Metal Historical Plate on Signpost
Erected by: IUPUI
Installation Date: 2015
Location: Lockefield Gardens near Volleyball and Basketball Courts
A historical marker was placed to mark the original site of the Lockefield Gardens "Dust Bowl" and to recognize its significance in the history of Indiana basketball.
The "Dust Bowl" was named for the original dirt basketball court located on this site; although the court was eventually paved, the nickname stuck. The "Dust Bowl" acted as a magnet for young basketball players from all around the city to come learn the rules of the game and practice their skills; one such player was NBA great, Oscar Robertson. The court was also home to the well-known "Dust Bowl" Tournament which started in 1948.
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Resources and additional information:
- Mullins, Paul. (April 27, 2015). Commemoration and African- American Place: Remembering Basketball and the Dust Bowl. Archaeology and Material Culture: The Material World, Broadly Defined. (website)