Wrigley Field is a legendary ballpark located in Chicago and the infamous home to the Chicago Cubs. Built in 1914, Wrigley Field is one of the most beloved parks in the nation and the second oldest standing- Fenway Park in Boston is older. While infamously known for being home to the Cubs, Wrigley Field was also home to the Chicago bears for close to 50 years (1921-1970 and originally the home of the Chicago Whales, the original baseball team that was part of the Chicago Federal League).
Wrigley Field being one of the most well known baseball landmarks in the country has had a storied history that any baseball enthusiast would be proud of. Built in 1914 as Weeghman Park and then renamed Cubs Park for 6 years, since 1926 it has been called Wrigley Field- named after the owner and chewing gum titan William Wrigley, Jr.
Wrigley Field has had quite a few infamous firsts as well as lasts. For instance, it was the first ballpark to have a permanent concession stand. It would seem inconceivable today, to have a ballpark without a hotdog stand on park grounds. In addition, Wrigley Field was the first park to allow foul balls that landed in the seats to be kept by the fans. The normal etiquette of the day was to throw the foul ball back onto the field. As far as lasts go, Wrigley Field was the last ball park to have stadium lighting. While originally slated for having lights in 1941, after Pearl Harbor, Phillip K. Wrigley instead donated the materials for the lights to the war effort. Night games would not take place until 1988- the last of all the ballparks.
The Renovation of Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field, while known throughout the world as one of the most famous ballparks was recently at the point of disrepair. Continually believed to be one of the worst fields to play on due to damage from ball games, stadium events and concerts, Wrigley Field was in desperate need of a full restoration. This restoration took place from 2007-2008 by one of the best in the business- the Sod Father Roger Bossard. An incredible under taking not only in the scope and magnitude of what needed repair, but the technology installed to ensure the field lasts for the many years to come, the restoration of this great field was quite an important achievement and is now an important part of this park’s history.
To learn more about the restoration of Wrigley Field, the Smithsonian Magazine has an excellent article on the subject. Please visit our main website to read it at: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/
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