O'Connell South Common, located at the intersection of South Union Street and Market Street, is named for Lawrence native, Private First Class Philip J. O’Connell. Born June 25, 1887 PFC O’Connell was a surgical assistant assigned to Medical Detachment of the 39th infantry, 4th division, who lost his life on August 1, 1918 during the Aisne-Marne Offensive of World War I. The O'Connell South Common is a large park containing several different facilities for the enjoyment of the citizens of Lawrence, from baseball fields, to a street hockey rink; there is even a bandstand at the front of the Common dedicated to the memory of Private Roland H. Vanderkerkove who was killed in action during the Battle for Mortain France during World War II. There is on street parking available, and plenty of picnic tables and facilities for a full afternoon of fun.
