“In the autumn of 2005, Professor Mark Auslander of Brandeis University and his class, entitled, “Museums and Public Memory” encountered an opportunity they couldn’t pass up. Counseled by Mr. Wallace Kountze and many others, the class researched and assembled a history of the close-knit community of West Medford, Massachusetts, focusing primarily on its compelling Afro-American heritage. The goal was to present and engaging historical portrait of this community, based on the recorded accounts of its members. The exciting emerging technology of the ipod was chosen for utilization for an audio tour of the heart of the West Medford community. This tour is the result of many hours of dedicated work by the students, the members of the West Medford Afro-American Remembrance Committee, and other community partners. We sincerely hope that you are informed, enlightened, and most importantly, entertained.”

Audio Introduction (without music)

Wallace Kountze, Hilton Parham, Jr. and Marilyn Smith talk to the Brandeis University class, “Museums and Public Memory”"

Community and Cars

Four Vietnam War veterans tell their to stories about their experiences in the Vietnam War, from their thoughts before they enlisted, the their experiences in the service, and to their return home to West Medford after their times in service. Here, listen as these four men introduce themselves, telling their position, rank, and years served during the Conflict.

During WWII, many men left the West Medford community to serve in the US military. The public WWII memorials in West Medford are a testament to the time served, and for many, for the lives lost of these veterans. Listen as members of the West Medford community speak about the importance of the WWII veterans to their personal lives and to the community as a whole.

Field Day is one of the most fondly remembered activities in the park. Please listen as the Fur sisters, Wally, Marilyn, and Sonny recount the happy memories associated with Field Day.

For more information about the inspiring individuals associated with sports in the park, please click the link below.

Dugger Park was significant because it brought the community together to play sports. Please listen as Sonny describes his memories of sports in the park.

This clip describes memories of water activities in Dugger Park from Sonny, Wally, and Marilyn.