Introduction
The Minnesota Vikings. The very name conjures images of Norse warriors, bone-chilling winds, and gridiron battles waged with ferocity and passion. While the team now calls US Bank Stadium home, the foundation of the Vikings franchise was firmly laid at a different venue: Metropolitan Stadium, often simply referred to as “the Met.” Before the roar of the Metrodome and the sleek modernity of their current home, Metropolitan Stadium served as the Vikings’ battleground. This hallowed ground holds a special place in the hearts of Vikings fans, representing not just a place to watch a game but the formative years of a franchise, a repository of iconic moments, and a unique atmosphere that inextricably shaped the Minnesota Vikings’ identity. It’s a place where legends were made, and memories were etched into the collective consciousness of the Vikings faithful. Metropolitan Stadium is more than just a forgotten relic; it’s a vital piece of Vikings history.
The Dawn of a Dynasty: Early Years and Construction
In the late nineteen fifties, the Twin Cities were hungry for professional football. While college football held sway, the desire for a local NFL team was palpable. The existing minor league team, the Minneapolis Millers, played baseball at Nicollet Park, a venue utterly unsuitable for professional football’s expanding needs. Calvin Griffith, the owner of the Washington Senators (who would later become the Minnesota Twins), recognized this need and began exploring options for a multi-purpose stadium.
The solution? Metropolitan Stadium. Located in Bloomington, Minnesota, the stadium was initially built for baseball, serving as the home of the Minneapolis Millers before becoming the permanent home of the Minnesota Twins baseball team. But its design considered the potential for football, and in nineteen sixty-one, it became the inaugural home of the newly formed Minnesota Vikings.
The construction wasn’t lavish. It was a practical, no-frills stadium reflecting the pragmatic spirit of the era. It featured open grandstands, a relatively modest capacity compared to modern stadiums, and a grass field that would become both celebrated and reviled for its unpredictable nature. Despite its relative simplicity, the opening of Metropolitan Stadium was met with immense enthusiasm. The prospect of watching professional football in their own backyard ignited a fervent passion among Minnesotans, instantly establishing a loyal fanbase that would become the hallmark of the Vikings franchise. The buzz surrounding the team and their new home created an atmosphere of anticipation, a belief that something special was about to begin.
Forging a Legacy: Key Moments and Memorable Games
Metropolitan Stadium witnessed a tapestry of unforgettable games and iconic moments that cemented its place in Vikings lore. It was a crucible where legends were forged, and victories were celebrated with unbridled joy.
One of the most memorable moments occurred during the Vikings’ dominant run in the late nineteen sixties and early nineteen seventies. The Purple People Eaters, the team’s fearsome defensive line led by Alan Page and Carl Eller, terrorized opposing quarterbacks in the confines of the Met. Opposing teams dreaded playing in Metropolitan Stadium, not just because of the Vikings’ formidable defense, but also due to the unpredictable playing surface. The Met’s field, often rutted and uneven, became a notorious home-field advantage.
Specific games stand out: battles against the Green Bay Packers, the Chicago Bears, and the Detroit Lions that defined the NFC Central rivalry. The roar of the crowd after a crucial interception, the collective gasp when Fran Tarkenton scrambled for a first down, the deafening cheers following a touchdown – these are the sounds and sensations forever associated with Metropolitan Stadium. Legendary plays like Tarkenton’s scrambles, Chuck Foreman’s powerful runs, and the bone-jarring hits by the Purple People Eaters are replayed in the minds of long-time fans, inextricably linked to the backdrop of the Met.
Countless anecdotes capture the stadium’s unique character. The biting wind that whipped across the open field, the aroma of hot dogs and brats wafting through the stands, the shared sense of anticipation as the Vikings took the field – these are the sensory details that paint a vivid picture of game days at the Met. These weren’t just games, they were communal experiences, bonding generations of Minnesotans through their shared love of the Vikings.
A Home Field Advantage: The Unique Atmosphere and Fan Experience
Metropolitan Stadium possessed a unique charm that contributed significantly to the Vikings’ home-field advantage. Its open-air design exposed fans to the elements, creating an intense and intimate atmosphere. The roar of the crowd reverberated through the stadium, creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams.
The stadium’s design, while simple, fostered a unique connection between the fans and the players. The relatively close proximity of the stands to the field intensified the feeling of being part of the action. Every tackle, every pass, every hit felt more immediate, more visceral. The relatively smaller capacity compared to modern stadiums also created a sense of exclusivity, making each game feel like a special event.
Vikings fans developed unique traditions and rituals that became synonymous with Metropolitan Stadium. Tailgating in the parking lots surrounding the stadium was a pre-game ritual, where fans would gather to share food, drinks, and camaraderie. The collective singing of the “Skol Vikings” fight song echoed throughout the stadium, uniting the fans in a display of unwavering support. The Gjallarhorn was not yet a tradition, but the passion of the fans was undeniable.
The sense of community within the stadium was palpable. Fans from all walks of life came together to share a common passion for the Vikings. Friendships were forged, memories were created, and a deep sense of belonging was cultivated. Metropolitan Stadium was more than just a stadium; it was a meeting place, a gathering spot, and a symbol of community pride.
Saying Goodbye: The Transition to the Metrodome
By the late nineteen seventies, Metropolitan Stadium began to show its age. The open-air design, which had once been a defining characteristic, became a liability as Minnesota winters grew increasingly harsh. The stadium lacked modern amenities and the revenue-generating opportunities that were becoming increasingly important in professional sports.
The decision to build the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in downtown Minneapolis was driven by a desire to provide the Vikings and the Minnesota Twins with a more comfortable and modern venue. The Metrodome offered a climate-controlled environment, increased seating capacity, and expanded revenue opportunities.
The move to the Metrodome was met with mixed emotions. While fans appreciated the comfort and convenience of the new stadium, they also mourned the loss of the unique atmosphere and character of Metropolitan Stadium. The final years at the Met were bittersweet, marked by a sense of nostalgia and a growing awareness that an era was coming to an end. The impact of leaving the Met was significant. While the Metrodome offered improvements, it lacked the charm and raw energy of its predecessor.
A Place in History: The Legacy of the Met
Despite its demolition, Metropolitan Stadium continues to hold a special place in the memories of Vikings fans. It represents the team’s formative years, a time when the Vikings were building their identity and establishing their place in the NFL. It serves as a reminder of the team’s humble beginnings and the unwavering support of its loyal fans.
Metropolitan Stadium’s influence on the Vikings’ culture and identity is undeniable. It instilled a sense of toughness, resilience, and community that continues to resonate within the organization. The team’s success in the nineteen sixties and nineteen seventies, played out against the backdrop of the Met, cemented its place in NFL history.
Efforts to preserve the memory of Metropolitan Stadium have been undertaken by fans and historians. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to the Met allow fans to share their memories and photos. Books and documentaries have been produced to chronicle the stadium’s history and significance. A marker at the location of the old stadium is now located in the parking lot of the Mall of America. Though the physical structure is gone, the memories live on.
Conclusion: A Timeless Legacy
Metropolitan Stadium was more than just bricks and mortar; it was a symbol of Minnesota’s passion for football and the enduring legacy of the Vikings franchise. It was a place where heroes were born, memories were made, and a community was united. It was a testament to the power of sports to bring people together and to create lasting bonds. Even though Metropolitan Stadium is no longer standing, its impact on the Minnesota Vikings and their fans will never be forgotten. The echoes of cheers, the memories of great plays, and the spirit of community continue to resonate, reminding us that Metropolitan Stadium will forever hold a special place in the history of the Minnesota Vikings. It was the birthplace of a legend, a foundation upon which the franchise was built, and a testament to the enduring power of sports to unite a community. Remembering the Met is remembering the heart and soul of the Minnesota Vikings. It’s a celebration of the past and a recognition of the enduring values that continue to define the team today.
