Douglas Park Renamed For WW1 Hero

Photo Credit: Springfield Park District Official Facebook Page

In a 6 to 1 vote, the Springfield Park Board voted on a new name for Douglas Park. The park located at 200 N MacArthur will now be named after Otis B. Duncan.

It was decided to remove Douglas’ name from the park back in September when it came to light he had profited significantly from owning slaves.

Duncan was the highest-ranking Black officer to serve in the American Expeditionary Forces in Europe during World War I.

Serving as a lieutenant colonel in the 370th Infantry Regiment, Duncan received a Purple Heart and the French Croix de Guerre for his service.

His family has deep roots in Springfield, with his grandfather, William Fleurville, Abraham Lincoln’s barber and friend.

Duncan was recently inducted into the Lincoln Academy of Illinois Hall of Fame, and he is buried at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

A formal naming ceremony date will be announced in the future.

Source SJR