In 2008 Springfield resident Aaron Williams began a campaign to recognize the Mason Square area as the birthplace of Basketball. 

In 2010, after gaining broad community support, Mr. Williams and the Mason Square community saw their dream become a reality. Supported by numerous sponsors, the Mason Square Basketball Monument was commissioned and erected in front of the Mason Square Library, just steps from the corner of Sherman and State Streets, where the first game of Basketball was played.

The unveiling of the monument was celebrated jubilantly, with a basketball tournament and outdoor music performances that were attended by hundreds. The monument was a source of pride for the Mason Square community. 

In 2013, the monument suffered damage of unknown origin, and has stood boarded up by the city. Despite numerous calls to city officials, the community's request for the monument to be restored has gone unanswered.

The Mason Square Basketball Monument should stand tall as a beacon of Springfield's history and source of pride in the community. Sign this petition to demand that the City of Springfield restore the Mason Square Basketball Monument.