Chicago Cubs Legend Ernie Banks Honored with Statue in Hometown of Dallas
May 21, 2025 – Dallas, TX — Baseball royalty returned to its roots this week as the Chicago Cubs officially unveiled a statue of Hall of Fame infielder Ernie Banks in his hometown of Dallas, Texas. The bronze tribute, commissioned by the Cubs organization in collaboration with the City of Dallas and local community leaders, celebrates the life and legacy of one of the most iconic figures in Major League Baseball history.
The unveiling ceremony took place at Booker T. Washington High School, Banks’ alma mater, where hundreds gathered to pay tribute to “Mr. Cub.” Family members, former teammates, city officials, Cubs executives, and local residents attended the emotional event, which commemorated Banks not only for his baseball greatness but also for his unwavering optimism and community impact.
“Let’s Play Two”: A Life Worth Celebrating
The statue captures Banks in his signature stance, bat raised and smile wide, as if ready to play yet another doubleheader—an homage to his famous catchphrase, “Let’s play two!” Known for his infectious enthusiasm, Banks played his entire 19-season MLB career with the Chicago Cubs from 1953 to 1971, becoming the face of the franchise through eras of both triumph and struggle.
“Ernie Banks was more than a ballplayer—he was an ambassador for the game and for the human spirit,” said Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts, who spoke at the event. “This statue stands not only as a tribute to his talent, but as a reminder of the joy, dignity, and pride he brought to every game, every community, and every person he met.”
A Hometown Hero
Though he became a Chicago icon, Banks never forgot his Dallas roots. Born in 1931, he grew up in the segregated South during the Great Depression, developing his athletic skills while facing social and racial adversity. He attended Booker T. Washington High School, where his baseball journey began. After a stint in the Negro Leagues with the Kansas City Monarchs, Banks became one of the first African American players in Cubs history.
The statue, sculpted by artist Oscar Leon, was strategically placed in the school’s athletic plaza, serving as inspiration for generations of Dallas youth. “This statue isn’t just about honoring the past—it’s about planting seeds for the future,” said Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. “Ernie Banks showed us that greatness can come from anywhere, including the fields of South Dallas.”
Family and Fans Reflect
Banks’ family members, including his son Jerry Banks and daughter Janita Banks, were on hand to witness the ceremony. “To see my father honored in the place where his journey began is deeply moving,” said Janita. “This community meant everything to him, and we hope this statue becomes a symbol of perseverance and possibility.”
Fans from both Dallas and Chicago made the journey to attend, many wearing vintage Cubs jerseys with Banks’ iconic #14. The event featured a marching band, tributes from community leaders, and a highlight reel chronicling Banks’ Hall of Fame career—512 home runs, two National League MVPs, and 14 All-Star selections.
Former teammate and Cubs Hall of Famer Billy Williams sent in a recorded message, saying, “Ernie loved this game and he loved people. He made everyone feel welcome—whether it was a teammate, a kid with a glove, or a stranger on the street. That’s what made him special.”
Cubs and Community Engagement
The Chicago Cubs’ decision to place a statue in Dallas was rooted in more than nostalgia. As part of the project, the team also announced a partnership with the City of Dallas to fund youth baseball and educational programs in underrepresented communities.
“Mr. Banks believed in giving back,” said Cubs Executive Vice President Crane Kenney. “This statue is just the beginning. We’re committing resources to mentorship programs, field renovations, and scholarships for aspiring young athletes and students in this area.”
A commemorative plaque at the statue’s base reads: “Ernie Banks — A son of Dallas, a legend of the game, and a symbol of hope.”
A Legacy Set in Bronze
Banks passed away in 2015, but his presence remains larger than life within both the Cubs organization and Major League Baseball. He was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and continues to be remembered for his enduring joy and grace.
For many, the statue is more than a monument—it’s a promise to carry on his legacy. “We teach our kids to play hard, stay humble, and love what they do,” said local Little League coach Darnell Porter. “That’s the Ernie Banks way.”
As the sun set over the statue, illuminating the glinting bronze and casting a long shadow on the schoolyard field where a young Ernie once dreamed big, the message was clear: greatness begins at home, and kindness echoes far beyond the diamond.
Ernie Banks will forever be “Mr. Cub,” but thanks to this statue in Dallas, he is also “Mr. Inspiration” to a new generation.
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