With the WSNLL’s first season in 1960, young people in Winston-Salem had the opportunity to play organized baseball before high school. The fledgling League developed an All Star team that went on become the North Carolina State Champion. Without the hard work of a few men and women with a vision, these outstanding players and the thousands of young players since then may not have had the chance to experience the thrill of the game.
In the early years, the WSNLL had no home field and scheduled games across the city at recreational facilities. Due to limited space and coaches, the league only fielded Majors division teams.
In 1962, Hanes Corporation allowed the League to build fields on Stratford Road across from Hanes Mill. The League created four small fields and offered both Minors and Majors division play.
In 1965, the WSNLL moved to the current site on Philips Bridge Road. The Hanes Corporation provided the rights to play on the property, and the League founders raised the money needed to build the fields. The founders also provided the capital for a concession/equipment storage building. Volunteers contributed hours of labor and expertise to make their dream of a permanent home field a reality.
The Robert Dalton Complex has long held the reputation as one of the nicest in the district for both players and fans. In 1969 the WSNLL hosted the first Big League World Series. Since 1995 the League has hosted eight Minors and Majors District 2 Tournaments.
History