Vienna in Wood County, West Virginia — The American South (Appalachia)
Darrell B. Dotson
Photographed by Bradley Owen, May 29, 2026
1. Darrell B. Dotson Marker
In recognition of his devotion, life long love of children and his belief in the value of participation in sports, this six-field baseball/soccer/softball complex is named the Darrell B. Dotson Sports Complex. Darrell started Vienna Recreation in 1953 and he was still actively involved in VRIA until he passed in 2005. VRIA was established as a non-profit organization and no child is ever refused for lack of the ability to pay the nominal fees. Darrell always looked out for the best interest of the kids and had a let's just play ball philosophy. What ever was needed, Darrell found a way to get done.
Darrell served as President of VRIA and the Vienna Park Board for most of his life. Darrell was also instrumental in developing the McDonough Wildlife Refuge. Darrell's tireless efforts for over 52 years and the leadership he provided in these organizations is why we have this facility to be proud of and enjoy.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Charity & Public Work • Parks & Recreational Areas • Sports. A significant historical year for this entry is 1953.
Location. 39° 19.422′ N, 81° 31.641′ W. Marker is in Vienna, West Virginia, in Wood County. It is on Jackson Park Drive west of Rosemar Road, on the left when traveling west. Touch for map.
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Regionally, this marker is in West Virginia’s Mid-Ohio Valley. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Upper South, in the Ohio River Valley, in Appalachia, and specifically in Northern Appalachia. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Viceroyalty of New France and also the territory of the Mississippian Culture.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 4 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: F-84F Thunderstreak (approx. half a mile away); Veterans Memorial (approx. half a mile away); B&O No. C-2222 Caboose (approx. 0.6 miles away); Gold Star Families Memorial Monument (approx. 1½ miles away); Ohio / West Virginia (approx. 3.1 miles away); Parkersburg High School (approx. 3.3 miles away); Julia-Ann Square Historic District (approx. 3.8 miles away); a different marker also named Julia-Ann Square Historic District (approx. 3.8 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Vienna.
Also see . . . Vienna Recreation Sports - About Us.
The Vienna Recreational and Improvement Association Board, known as VRIA, was established in 1953 by our founder Darrell B. Dotson and is a non-profit, volunteer agency, providing recreational facilities and activities for girls and boys from Vienna, North Hills, and other neighboring communities. Over 1750 youths participate in these activities each year. The City of Vienna Parks and Recreation provides assistance with the maintenance of the ball fields and facilities being used by VRIA activities such as basketball, soccer,(Submitted on June 11, 2026, by Bradley Owen of Morgantown, West Virginia.)floor hockey, baseball, softball, flag football, cheerleading, disc golf, tennis and more.Photographed by Bradley Owen, May 29, 20262. Darrell B. Dotson Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on June 11, 2026. It was originally submitted on June 11, 2026, by Bradley Owen of Morgantown, West Virginia. This page has been viewed 5 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 11, 2026, by Bradley Owen of Morgantown, West Virginia.
