Introduction
The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, and then… the rising of the Apple. For generations of New York Mets fans, that simple visual was a beacon of hope, a sign that their team had done something special at Shea Stadium. That apple, a bright, oversized replica that ascended from its hidden compartment behind the center field wall, became more than just a quirky celebration; it became a symbol of the Mets themselves, a tangible connection between the team, its history, and its fiercely loyal fanbase. While Shea Stadium is now just a memory, the legacy of that apple, and its modern-day counterpart at Citi Field, continues to bloom, a constant reminder of the highs and lows, the heartaches and triumphs, that define the Mets experience.
Shea Stadium: A Brief History
Shea Stadium stood for over four decades as the home of the Amazin’ Mets, a concrete and steel testament to the city’s unwavering love for baseball. From the stadium’s opening in the mid-sixties until its final game in the late aughts, Shea played host to countless unforgettable moments. The Beatles famously played a show there, solidifying the stadium as more than just a sports venue, while New Yorkers rallied at Shea after the tragedy of nine eleven. But for Mets fans, it was the baseball that truly mattered. Shea was the site of World Series victories, heartbreaking defeats, and everything in between. Its quirky dimensions, its somewhat chaotic atmosphere, and, of course, the infamous Shea Stadium apple, all contributed to a unique and unforgettable ballpark experience. The energy in Shea was palpable; a wave of unadulterated emotion that flowed from the stands with every pitch. From its sometimes leaky roof to its less-than-glamorous concourses, Shea had character. This was a place where the underdog could thrive, and where anything felt possible. It was a place that Mets fans proudly called home.
The Origin and Evolution of the Shea Stadium Apple
The Shea Stadium apple didn’t spring into existence overnight. Its origins are rooted in New York City’s nickname, “The Big Apple,” a term popularized by jazz musicians in the nineteen twenties who referred to New York as the ultimate destination for performers. The connection between the city and the apple was strong, and when the Mets were looking for a unique way to celebrate home runs, the idea of a giant apple rising in center field made perfect sense. It was a playful nod to the city’s identity, a fun and memorable visual that would quickly become synonymous with the team.
The original Shea Stadium apple was a relatively simple affair. Constructed of fiberglass and painted a vibrant red, it was perched atop a mechanism that allowed it to rise and descend on cue. It was a low-tech symbol with huge impact. Its operation was something of a spectacle in itself. Typically operated by a member of the stadium’s ground crew, the raising of the apple was always a timely and eagerly anticipated event. There were no instant replays back then so everyone was glued to the field after a ball sailed over the fence to see the apple go up. While its design remained largely unchanged throughout Shea Stadium’s lifespan, the impact it had on fans was always immeasurable.
The Significance of the Apple: Symbolism and Fan Connection
The Shea Stadium apple became more than just a visual cue; it evolved into a powerful symbol of hope and optimism for Mets fans, particularly during the team’s periods of struggle. In a city known for its cynicism, the apple offered a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. It was a reminder that anything was possible, that even the most downtrodden team could experience moments of triumph. Every time the apple rose, it ignited a spark of hope in the hearts of fans, a belief that the Mets could defy the odds and achieve greatness. The sight of the apple was an instant mood lifter that reverberated through the stadium.
The apple also served as a symbol of celebration, a way for fans to collectively revel in the team’s success. It marked a moment of excitement, a brief escape from the everyday grind. In a city that moves at a frenetic pace, the apple provided a much-needed opportunity to pause and celebrate. The collective cheer that erupted when the apple emerged from its hiding place was a testament to the shared joy that baseball, and the Shea Stadium apple, brought to the lives of so many New Yorkers.
The Shea Stadium apple’s cultural impact extended beyond the ballpark. It became a recognizable symbol of New York City itself, frequently appearing in advertisements, television shows, and movies. It even found its way onto t-shirts, hats, and other merchandise, cementing its place in popular culture. For many, the image of the apple became inextricably linked to memories of summers spent at Shea Stadium, cheering on their beloved Mets. It represented a simpler time, a time when the world seemed a little brighter and baseball was the most important thing in the world.
Ask any Mets fan who attended games at Shea Stadium, and they’re sure to have a story about the apple. Some recall the sheer joy of seeing it rise after a clutch home run. Others remember the disappointment of a close loss, knowing that the apple would remain hidden. Regardless of the specific memory, the Shea Stadium apple played a significant role in shaping the fan experience, creating a sense of shared identity and camaraderie.
The Shea Stadium Apple’s Transition to Citi Field
When the time came to bid farewell to Shea Stadium, there was a collective concern among Mets fans about the fate of the apple. Would it be discarded? Would it be forgotten? Fortunately, the Mets organization understood the importance of preserving this iconic symbol and made the decision to incorporate an apple into the design of their new home, Citi Field. The transition from Shea to Citi Field was bittersweet, but the inclusion of the apple helped to ease the pain, providing a tangible link to the team’s past.
The new apple at Citi Field is significantly larger and more technologically advanced than its predecessor. Standing forty two feet tall, it’s a visible tribute to Shea’s legacy. Built with a sleeker design and modern materials, it’s a fitting symbol for the team’s new era. The current apple is made of fiberglass, aluminum and steel, and is raised immediately when the Mets hit a home run or win the game. The current apple is located in the center field area of the ballpark.
Adding to the tribute to Shea is the Shea Bridge, which offers views of the field as fans make their way to and from their seats. It serves as a constant reminder of the stadium’s legacy. These features, along with various displays and exhibits throughout Citi Field, ensure that the spirit of Shea Stadium lives on, even in its absence.
The Apple’s Enduring Legacy
The presence of the apple at Citi Field ensures that the tradition continues, connecting generations of Mets fans. While the new ballpark may lack the gritty charm of Shea Stadium, the apple provides a tangible reminder of the team’s roots, a symbol of hope and optimism that resonates with fans old and new. It serves as a constant link to the past, reminding fans of the unforgettable moments that unfolded at Shea Stadium and inspiring hope for a bright future at Citi Field. It is the heart of the fan experience in Queens.
The Shea Stadium apple represents more than just a baseball team or a ballpark tradition. It symbolizes the resilience of the New York Mets, the unwavering loyalty of their fans, and the enduring power of hope. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there’s always a reason to believe, a reason to cheer, and a reason to look forward to the next time the apple rises. The Shea Stadium Apple is a reminder that although ballparks can be demolished, the memories that were created there live on forever in the hearts of New York Mets fans. It’s a reminder to cherish the traditions that bind the Mets community together. The legacy of Shea Stadium and its iconic apple will continue to thrive through the passion of its fans.
