The History of the Wassamassaw Community Center & Pressley Field

The story of the Wassamassaw Community Center is deeply intertwined with the history of the rural communities of Moncks Corner in Berkeley County. Its origins likely date back to the mid-20th century, a time when organized recreational leagues became a cornerstone of community life in the South.

Early Origins

(Mid-1900s)

The land around 1023 Queenie Road was initially used for informal community gatherings, church picnics, and local baseball or softball games. Pressley Field was dedicated to a long - time local family named Pressley. It was a common practice, where a family would grant a parcel of land for the betterment of the community.

As the population grew, the need for organized youth sports became apparent. The Wassamassaw Recreational League (WRL) was formally established during this era by a group of dedicated parents, farmers, and community leaders. Their goal was simple: to provide a safe, structured environment for local children to play sports like baseball, softball, and later, soccer. Games would have been played on the rudimentary Pressley Field.

The success and growth of the WRL would have created a need for a permanent structure—a place to store equipment, host meetings, and serve as a shelter from the rain and heat. What started as an open pavillion, built by the community, transformed into a building able to host meetings, reunions, and weddings/baby showers. This building along with our concession stand and computer hub makes WRL not just a sports field, but a true commuity destination.

The Formation of the League

(1960s-1970s)

The Community Center Building

(1980s-1990s)

Expansion and Modernization
(2000s-Present)

Over the decades, the facility has undoubtedly evolved. What might have started as a single ballfield and a small cinderblock building has seen additions— lighting for night games, or upgrades to the center itself to allow for more events. The "aka" (also known as) in the name indicates that its role expanded from solely a recreational league headquarters to a multi-purpose Wassamassaw Community Center.