37 Facts About Wrigley

Wrigley Field: A Historic Gem

Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the United States. Its rich history and unique features make it a beloved landmark for baseball fans and history buffs alike.

1. Wrigley Field opened in 1914, making it the second-oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, right after Fenway Park.

2. Originally named Weeghman Park, it was built for the Chicago Whales of the Federal League.

3. In 1920, the stadium was renamed Cubs Park after the Chicago Cubs moved in.

4. The name Wrigley Field was adopted in 1926 to honor the team's owner, William Wrigley Jr., who was also the chewing gum magnate.

Unique Features of Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field isn't just any baseball stadium. It has several unique features that set it apart from other ballparks.

5. The iconic ivy-covered brick outfield walls were planted in 1937 by Bill Veeck, adding a touch of greenery and a unique challenge for outfielders.

6. Wrigley Field is one of the few stadiums that still has a manually operated scoreboard, which has been in use since 1937.

7. The stadium is famous for its rooftop seating. Buildings across the street from the ballpark offer rooftop views of the games, a tradition that started in the 1910s.

8. The stadium's marquee, installed in 1934, is a well-known landmark. It was originally green but was painted red in the 1960s.

Memorable Moments at Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field has been the site of many memorable moments in baseball history. Here are some highlights.

9. Babe Ruth's "called shot" during the 1932 World Series is one of the most famous moments in baseball history. Ruth allegedly pointed to the center field before hitting a home run.

10. In 1945, a fan brought a goat to a World Series game, leading to the infamous "Curse of the Billy Goat," which supposedly prevented the Cubs from winning the World Series for decades.

11. The Cubs finally broke the curse in 2016, winning their first World Series in 108 years.

12. Wrigley Field hosted the All-Star Game three times: in 1947, 1962, and 1990.

Wrigley Field and Pop Culture

Wrigley Field has also made its mark in pop culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and music.

13. The ballpark was featured in the 1986 film "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," where Ferris and his friends attend a Cubs game.

14. Wrigley Field appeared in the 1993 movie "Rookie of the Year," which tells the story of a young boy who becomes a major league pitcher.

15. The stadium was also a filming location for the 1992 movie "A League of Their Own."

16. Pearl Jam recorded a live album at Wrigley Field in 2016, titled "Let's Play Two."

Wrigley Field Traditions

Wrigley Field is known for its unique traditions that add to the charm and experience of attending a game.

17. The seventh-inning stretch at Wrigley Field is a special event. Since 1998, a guest conductor leads the crowd in singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game."

18. The "W" and "L" flags are another tradition. After each game, a flag is raised to indicate whether the Cubs won or lost.

19. The ballpark organ has been a staple since 1941, providing classic baseball tunes and adding to the nostalgic atmosphere.

20. Fans throw back home run balls hit by opposing teams, a tradition that started in the 1960s.

Renovations and Changes

Despite its age, Wrigley Field has undergone several renovations to keep it up to date while preserving its historic charm.

21. In 1988, lights were installed at Wrigley Field, allowing for night games for the first time in its history.

22. The stadium underwent a major renovation project called the 1060 Project, which began in 2014 and aimed to modernize the facilities while preserving its historic features.

23. As part of the renovations, new video boards were installed in 2015, providing fans with instant replays and additional information.

24. The renovation project also included the construction of new clubhouses, improved seating, and expanded concourses.

Fun Facts About Wrigley Field

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Wrigley Field that add to its charm and mystique.

25. Wrigley Field was the last Major League ballpark to install lights for night games.

26. The stadium's address is 1060 West Addison Street, which was famously used as a fake address in the movie "The Blues Brothers."

27. Wrigley Field has a capacity of approximately 41,000 seats, making it one of the smaller ballparks in the league.

28. The stadium is known for its unpredictable wind patterns, which can significantly affect the outcome of games.

29. Wrigley Field was the first ballpark to allow fans to keep foul balls hit into the stands.

30. The stadium's first organist, Ray Nelson, played at Wrigley Field for over 40 years.

31. Wrigley Field has hosted several non-baseball events, including football games, concerts, and even a hockey game.

32. The ballpark's famous red marquee was temporarily painted green in 2010 to celebrate the stadium's 100th anniversary.

33. Wrigley Field is one of the few ballparks where fans can watch batting practice from the bleachers.

34. The stadium's ivy-covered walls are made up of Boston ivy and Japanese bittersweet.

35. Wrigley Field has a unique tradition of flying the "W" flag after a Cubs win, which has become a symbol of victory for Cubs fans.

36. The stadium's bleachers are known for their rowdy and passionate fans, who create an electric atmosphere during games.

37. Wrigley Field is one of the few ballparks where fans can bring their own food and drinks, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere.

Wrigley Field's Timeless Charm

Wrigley Field isn't just a ballpark; it's a living piece of baseball history. From its iconic ivy-covered walls to the hand-turned scoreboard, every corner of this stadium tells a story. The Chicago Cubs have called it home for over a century, creating countless memories for fans. Whether it's the rooftop seats or the seventh-inning stretch, Wrigley offers a unique experience that modern stadiums can't replicate. The neighborhood vibe adds to its charm, making it a must-visit for any baseball enthusiast. As you walk through the gates, you're not just attending a game; you're stepping into a legacy. So next time you're in Chicago, catch a game at Wrigley Field. You'll be part of a tradition that spans generations.