THE HISTORICAL
MARKER DATABASE
“Bite-Size Bits of Local, National, and Global History”
Wrigleyville in Chicago in Cook County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
 

1953-1989

 
 
1953-1989 Marker image. Click for full size.
Photographed by Sean P. Flynn, November 10, 2026
1. 1953-1989 Marker
Inscription. In 1953, Ernie Banks broke the Cubs' color barrier, beginning a remarkable 19-year career earning him the title "Mr. Cub." By 1969, Banks was joined by Fergie Jenkins, Ron Santo and Billy Williams on one of the most beloved teams in franchise history, a group whose connection with fans still resonates today.

After decades without postseason play, the Cubs won the 1984 National League East title, led by Ryne Sandberg (National League MVP) and Rick Sutcliffe (Cy Young Award winner). The momentum continued a few years later as Andre Dawson helped lead the club to another division title in 1989, one year after historic Wrigley Field became the last ballpark to install lights for night games.
 
Erected 2026 by Chicago Cubs.
 
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Sports. In addition, it is included in the Baseball Hall of Famers series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1953.
 
Location. 41° 56.865′ N, 87° 39.407′ W. Marker is in Chicago, Illinois, in Cook County. It is in Wrigleyville. It is on North Clark Street north of West Addison Street, on
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the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1060 West Addison Street, Chicago IL 60613, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is on Chicago’s North Side. It is also in the American Midwest. Globally, it is in North America, on the Great Lakes, in the Western Hemisphere, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Viceroyalty of New France, the territory of the Mississippian Culture, and the Northwest Territory.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: 1916-1952 (here, next to this marker); 1990-2026 (here, next to this marker); 1876-1915 (here, next to this marker); Wrigley Field (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Wrigley Field (within shouting distance of this marker); 2016 (within shouting distance of this marker); Ryne Sandberg (within shouting distance of this marker); Ron Santo (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Chicago.
 
Clock at Gallagher Way at Wrigley Field image. Click for full size.
Photographed by Sean P. Flynn, November 10, 2026
2. Clock at Gallagher Way at Wrigley Field
The Founders Clock, with a side view of Wrigley Field’s iconic marquee image. Click for full size.
Photographed by Sean P. Flynn, November 10, 2026
3. The Founders Clock, with a side view of Wrigley Field’s iconic marquee
Ernie Banks with President Obama image. Click for full size.
Office of White House Personnel, Photography Office (courtesy of National Archives), November 20, 2013
4. Ernie Banks with President Obama
President Obama speaks with Ernie Banks after "Mr. Cub" was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.
 
 
Credits. This page was last revised on November 11, 2026. It was originally submitted on November 10, 2026, by Sean P. Flynn of Oak Park, Illinois. This page has been viewed 4 times since then. Photos:   1, 2, 3. submitted on November 10, 2026, by Sean P. Flynn of Oak Park, Illinois.   4. submitted on December 25, 2021.
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Nov. 11, 2026