Public Invited to Julian Olsen Bust Dedication Oct. 11 at Bayview Park

The City of Pensacola invites the public to a dedication ceremony for the new Julian Olsen bust at Bayview Park on Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 2 p.m., celebrating the life and legacy of Julian "Ole" Olsen, Sr., the City of Pensacola's first-ever Parks and Recreation Director.

The dedication will take place at Bayview Park, located at 2001 E. Lloyd St. in Pensacola, at the west side of the park near the intersection of East Blount Street and North 20th Avenue.

Olsen was a pioneer who established many programs in City of Pensacola Parks and Recreation during his 28 years of service to the city from 1928 to 1956. Olsen was instrumental in the development of Bayview Park, creating the Julian Olsen Youth Track Meet, youth athletics, amateur boxing matches, and a swimming program at Bayview. He also helped establish many youth centers including Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, Fricker Resource Center and Bayview Community Resource Center.

A former professional baseball player for the New York Yankees, Olsen also developed a softball league and created “tot lots” to provide recreation places for the children in the area.

He served as the President of the Florida Recreation and Parks Association for two years, receiving an Achievement Award from the FRPA for outstanding service to his community and the State of Florida. Olsen was also active in the National Parks Association.

For more information or general questions, email pio@cityofpensacola.com. To stay informed about what's happening with City of Pensacola government, sign up for email or text notifications through Notify Me or follow @CityofPensacola on social media.