The Rural Studio was approached by residents and parents truly concerned about the welfare and future of the children in Newbern. They felt that many of the problems associated with the socio-economic conditions of the area could be helped with an inspirationall and well-built Little League baseball field. The children's needs included: a safe environment for after-school activities, positive role models, an organized program where children can gain a sense of accomplishment, and a venue where they can work towards sports scholarships.

The Rural Studio approached Baseball Tomorrow, the philanthropic arm of Major League Baseball and the Major League Player's Association and received funding for this project. The field was carved from a piece of sloping ground on the property donated to the town and the Little League by the estate of Mr. Robert Walthall. The sculpting of the land was made possible using the latest catfish pond excavaion technology. The backstop is a series of semicircular hoops that cling to the ground forming a protective "slinky" for the viewing audience. The slinky is sheathed in donated used catfish nets. The lights for the field were also donated.

It is our hope that Slippery Elm Park will provide a fostering environment for youth sports and that it will enable a wonderful tradition to continue and perhaps eventually produce a young Frank Thomas or Bo Jackson.