Introduction
For many Pittsburghers, the echoes of roaring crowds, the smell of hot dogs, and the electric atmosphere of a game are intrinsically linked to one place: Three Rivers Stadium. More than just a concrete and steel structure, Three Rivers Stadium was a multi-purpose arena that defined a generation of sports fans in the Steel City. From dramatic World Series victories to bone-jarring tackles on the gridiron, this stadium served as the backdrop for some of the most unforgettable moments in Pittsburgh’s sporting history. Opened in 1970 and demolished in 2000, Three Rivers wasn’t just a stadium; it was a symbol of Pittsburgh’s grit, determination, and unwavering passion for its teams. This article explores the legacy of Three Rivers Stadium, examining its construction, its iconic moments, its controversies, and its lasting impact on the city it called home.
Construction and Design of a Multi-Purpose Era
Three Rivers Stadium emerged during a period of architectural ambition and evolving sports franchise needs. The late 1960s and early 1970s saw a rise in the construction of multi-purpose stadiums across the United States, driven by the desire to accommodate both baseball and football teams in a single venue. Pittsburgh, with its beloved Pirates baseball team and Steelers football team, was a prime candidate for this type of development. The decision to build Three Rivers Stadium was rooted in the need to replace the aging Forbes Field, home of the Pirates, and Pitt Stadium, home field for the Steelers.
Located on the city’s North Shore, near the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers (hence the name “Three Rivers”), the stadium was designed with a circular, symmetrical layout. This design aimed to provide relatively equal sightlines for both baseball and football games, but it also contributed to a certain lack of distinctive character. The stadium boasted a seating capacity that fluctuated depending on the event, generally around 48,000 for baseball and over 59,000 for football. Artificial turf, specifically AstroTurf, covered the playing surface, a common feature of multi-purpose stadiums at the time, intended to withstand the wear and tear of hosting multiple events. Notable features included a large scoreboard, luxury skyboxes (considered a modern amenity at the time), and a fairly standardized concession layout.
Initial reactions to Three Rivers Stadium were mixed. On one hand, it represented progress and modernization. It offered more comfortable seating, better facilities, and a greater capacity than the old venues. On the other hand, some fans lamented the loss of the intimate atmosphere and the unique character of Forbes Field and Pitt Stadium. There was a feeling that the stadium was somewhat sterile, lacking the charm and history that had endeared the older ballparks to generations of Pittsburghers.
Key Tenants and Memorable Moments: A Stage for Pittsburgh Glory
Three Rivers Stadium was home to three notable tenants during its existence: the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and for one brief season, the Pittsburgh Maulers of the United States Football League. It was within these walls that some of the most cherished and memorable moments in Pittsburgh sports history unfolded.
Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB)
The Pittsburgh Pirates enjoyed considerable success at Three Rivers Stadium. The stadium witnessed the franchise’s resurgence in the early 1970s, culminating in the 1971 World Series victory over the Baltimore Orioles. The names of Roberto Clemente, Willie Stargell, and Bill Mazeroski are forever intertwined with the stadium’s lore. Games played there are legendary. For example, the dramatic come-from-behind victories that saw the Pirates capture the championship. Clemente’s electrifying performance and Stargell’s clutch hitting became synonymous with the spirit of the Pirates during their time at Three Rivers. Then, the 1979 World Series saw another Pirates victory, this time against the same Baltimore Orioles. Known as the “We Are Family” team, the ’79 Pirates brought joy and excitement to the city. The atmosphere at Three Rivers during those playoff runs was nothing short of electric, a testament to the passion of Pittsburgh baseball fans.
Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL)
The Pittsburgh Steelers also forged a dynasty at Three Rivers Stadium. The “Steel Curtain” era, with legendary players like Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, “Mean” Joe Greene, and Jack Lambert, cemented the Steelers’ place as one of the greatest teams in NFL history. The stadium became a fortress, where opponents feared to tread. No discussion of Steelers football at Three Rivers Stadium is complete without mentioning the “Immaculate Reception,” one of the most iconic plays in NFL history. Franco Harris’s improbable catch in the 1972 AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Oakland Raiders remains a defining moment, not just for the Steelers, but for the entire city of Pittsburgh. Beyond that single play, the stadium played host to countless other thrilling games, nail-biting finishes, and dominant performances that shaped the Steelers’ legacy.
Pittsburgh Maulers (USFL)
A brief stint for the Pittsburgh Maulers provided a short lived chapter. In 1984, the United States Football League team played a single season at the stadium before the league folded.
Concerts and Other Events
Beyond baseball and football, Three Rivers Stadium also served as a venue for major concerts and other events. The Rolling Stones, The Who, and numerous other legendary musical acts graced the stage, drawing massive crowds and further solidifying the stadium’s place as a cultural hub. Political rallies and religious gatherings also took place within its walls, showcasing its versatility as a public space.
Controversies and Criticisms: Beyond the Cheers
Despite its iconic status and the unforgettable moments it hosted, Three Rivers Stadium was not without its share of controversies and criticisms. One of the most frequent complaints centered around the artificial turf. AstroTurf, while durable and easy to maintain, was widely disliked by players due to its hard surface, which was believed to contribute to injuries. The unforgiving nature of the turf also altered the way the game was played, favoring speed and athleticism over finesse and strategy.
Another common criticism was that Three Rivers Stadium lacked character and personality. Its generic, circular design was seen as a product of its time, a cookie-cutter stadium that failed to capture the unique spirit of Pittsburgh or the traditions of baseball and football. In contrast to Forbes Field, with its ivy-covered walls and quirky dimensions, and Pitt Stadium with its collegiate feel, Three Rivers was perceived as somewhat soulless and impersonal.
Comparison to Forbes Field and Pitt Stadium
There were comparisons to the older stadiums Forbes Field and Pitt Stadium. Many fans missed the intimate atmosphere and unique quirks of those older venues. Forbes Field had a special charm and character, while Pitt Stadium offered an intense and intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. Three Rivers, while offering modern amenities, lacked the emotional connection that many fans had with the older venues.
Funding and Public Opinion
Funding for Three Rivers Stadium also generated debate. As a publicly funded project, some questioned whether the stadium was the best use of taxpayer money. There was ongoing discussion about the balance between public investment in sports facilities and other pressing needs within the city.
Demolition and Legacy: The End of an Era, the Start of a Memory
By the late 1990s, the limitations of Three Rivers Stadium had become increasingly apparent. The multi-purpose design, while initially appealing, was no longer considered ideal for either baseball or football. The lack of modern amenities, the outdated concessions, and the general wear and tear of the stadium all contributed to the decision to replace it with separate, single-sport venues.
The decision was made to demolish Three Rivers Stadium and build PNC Park for the Pirates and Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium) for the Steelers. The demolition of Three Rivers Stadium took place on February 11, 2001. It was a carefully orchestrated implosion that brought down the stadium in a matter of seconds. The event was watched by thousands of spectators and broadcast live on television, marking the end of an era in Pittsburgh sports history.
Despite its demolition, Three Rivers Stadium continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Pittsburgh sports fans. It was a venue that witnessed incredible victories, heartbreaking defeats, and countless moments of shared joy and camaraderie. The stadium served as a gathering place for the city, a place where people from all walks of life could come together to celebrate their teams and their city.
The site where Three Rivers Stadium once stood is now largely used for parking and green space. While there is no physical reminder of the stadium, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who attended games, cheered for their teams, and experienced the thrill of victory within its walls.
Conclusion
Three Rivers Stadium was more than just a ballpark; it was a Pittsburgh icon. From World Series celebrations to Super Bowl dynasties, the stadium served as the backdrop for some of the most defining moments in Pittsburgh’s sports history. While its multi-purpose design and artificial turf drew criticism, the stadium’s impact on the city’s culture and the memories it created are undeniable. The echoes of the crowd, the smell of the concessions, and the shared passion for the teams that called it home will forever be etched in the collective memory of Pittsburgh sports fans. It remains a place of fondness and an image that brings nostalgia. Three Rivers Stadium, though gone, is certainly not forgotten.
