Lathwell, Wendell

Wendell Lathwell – (1983)

 

WENDELL LATHWELL

Recognized as the “founding Father” of the Lorain Little League, Wendell Lathwell began his athletic career in the mid 1930s as an infielder in fast pitch softball and baseball.

In baseball in 1933-34, he played second base for the city and county champion Mike’s Barbers in the “D” League with the Verhovay nine. In 1935, at age 17, he vaulted to the “A” League. A little weak with the stick, he was outstanding defensively. He especially enjoyed his years with the Class A Elks aggregation in the late 30s as they tackled all the outstanding area teams.

In 1952, with a bevy of boys in the family, he became interested in the Little League program out of Williamsport, PA. After securing the necessary details from the league, he embarked on his journey to install the program in Lorain. As the elected President of Lorain Little League, Wen met with Mayor Jaworski and received the green light to build a little league field at Cromwell Park. Then came the arduous hours of planning for sponsors, adult personnel and field construction. Wen’s tireless efforts bore fruit as baseball fans donated labor and materials to the construction of Cromwell Field and sponsors, managers, umpires and other league personnel came forth.

The league opened with six teams in 1953 and Wen stayed for 18 years expanding the league to 16 teams, constructing Washington Park field and managing the Elks Club team to several championships.

Wen served as City Recreation Director during 1957 to 1959. In this position he strove for parity in the City Leagues by introducing the draft. His concerted efforts to provide the city with a lighted baseball diamond failed due to lack of funds.