When was Soldier Field Built?
Soldier Field, the iconic football stadium located in Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive, has a rich history that spans over nine decades. Built in the early 1920s, the stadium has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years to become the state-of-the-art facility it is today. In this article, we’ll take a look at the history of Soldier Field, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a premier sports destination.
Early Years: 1919-1924
The idea of building a stadium in Chicago dates back to 1919, when the Chicago Park District and the Illinois General Assembly authorized the construction of a new stadium on Lake Shore Drive. The original plan was to build a stadium with a seating capacity of 28,000, but as the project progressed, the design was modified to accommodate more fans. The final design included a Capacity of 34,500 and a unique shape, with a horseshoe-shaped seating area that would become a hallmark of the stadium.
Groundbreaking and Construction: 1924-1924
On September 20, 1924, the groundbreaking ceremony was held for Soldier Field, and construction began in earnest. The construction process took just over a year to complete, with the final touches being added in September 1925. The stadium was designed by architect Frederick Law Olmsted and engineer Zachary Taylor Davis, and it was constructed at a cost of $1.5 million.
Opening and Early Years: 1925-1950s
Soldier Field opened on September 17, 1925, with a game between the Chicago Bears and the Cincinnati Reds. The original seating capacity was 36,000, but as the stadium’s popularity grew, additional seating was added, bringing the total capacity to 45,000. The stadium quickly became known for its unique horseshoe shape and its picturesque views of Lake Michigan.
Changes and Upgrades: 1950s-2000s
Over the years, Soldier Field underwent several renovations and expansions. In the 1950s, the stadium’s seating capacity was increased to 55,000, and in the 1960s, the original turf was replaced with Astroturf. In the 1980s, the stadium underwent a major renovation, which added new seating, improved accessibility, and updated the concourses. In 2003, the stadium was renamed Soldier Field 1919, in recognition of its centennial year.
Modern Era: 2000s-Present
In 2003, Soldier Field underwent a major renovation, which included the installation of a new turf field, improved seating, and a state-of-the-art video scoreboard. In 2019, the stadium underwent another major renovation, which added 12,000 new seats, improved the concourses, and upgraded the stadium’s technology.
Interesting Facts and Figures
Here are some interesting facts and figures about Soldier Field:
Capacity: 61,500 (expandable to 70,000)
Length: 396 feet (121 meters)
Width: 374 feet (114 meters)
Field Size: 120 yards (109 meters) x 53 1/3 yards (48 meters)
Number of Suites: 170
Number of Restrooms: 240
Awards and Accolades
Soldier Field has been recognized with several awards and accolades, including:
- AAA Stadium of the Year (2019)
- Best Stadium in the NFL (2019)
- Top 10 Sports Venues in the United States (2020)
Conclusion
Soldier Field has a rich history that spans over nine decades, from its humble beginnings in 1919 to its current status as a premier sports destination. With its unique horseshoe shape and picturesque views of Lake Michigan, the stadium has become an iconic symbol of Chicago and American football. Whether you’re a sports fan or simply looking for a unique experience, Soldier Field is a must-visit destination.
