Introduction
St. Louis, Missouri. The Gateway to the West. And for baseball fans, it’s the gateway to Busch Stadium, a name synonymous with the St. Louis Cardinals and a rich history that echoes through generations. The roar of the crowd, the crack of the bat, the aroma of hot dogs – these are the sensory hallmarks of the ballpark experience. But when someone asks, “When was Busch Stadium built?”, the answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. The story involves not one, but two iconic stadiums, each with its own distinct era and lasting impact.
This article delves into the fascinating history of both iterations of Busch Stadium, exploring their construction timelines, architectural features, pivotal moments, and enduring legacies. We’ll uncover the story behind the bricks and mortar, and reveal how each Busch Stadium became an integral part of the St. Louis community and a hallowed ground for baseball fans worldwide.
The Era of Old Busch: A Multi-Purpose Marvel
To fully understand the history of Busch Stadium, we must first journey back to the nineteen sixties, a time of architectural experimentation and a boom in multi-purpose stadiums. The original Busch Stadium, often lovingly referred to as “Old Busch,” opened its gates to eager fans. The decision to construct a new stadium came about from the desire to keep the Cardinals downtown in St. Louis. There was a real threat of the team moving to the suburbs or even another city, and team owner August Busch Jr. was adamant about keeping the team in its home of many years.
Construction commenced at a downtown location on a ten block area of the city that was formerly known as “Chouteau’s Pond.” This area of the city was a blighted area, and the creation of the new stadium helped with urban renewal for this area.
The stadium was named in honor of August Anheuser Busch Sr. and August Anheuser Busch Jr. The Busch Family were the owners of the Cardinals and of Anheuser-Busch, a St. Louis based brewery.
Old Busch was designed as a multi-purpose stadium, meaning it was built to accommodate both baseball and football games. This was a common practice at the time, aiming to maximize the use of the facility. While this approach allowed for diverse events, it also resulted in certain compromises in terms of sightlines and overall baseball experience.
The stadium was characterized by its circular shape and concrete facade. It was a product of its time and the design was fairly cookie-cutter in that the same basic stadium design could be found in several other cities. While perhaps not aesthetically stunning by modern standards, it was a functional and impressive structure that could hold a substantial number of fans. The cost of the stadium was approximately twenty six million dollars, which would be the equivalent of over two hundred and fifty million dollars today.
Old Busch quickly became a hub of activity, hosting not only Cardinals baseball games but also St. Louis Cardinals football games, concerts, and other major events. It was witness to numerous World Series games, All-Star Games, and legendary performances. The atmosphere within its walls was electric, and the echoes of cheers and unforgettable moments still resonate in the memories of those who experienced them. Legendary musicians such as The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan all played concerts in the stadium during its run.
Throughout its lifespan, Old Busch underwent several renovations and upgrades to keep pace with the changing expectations of fans. The original astroturf was replaced with a newer version, and additional seating was added. However, as time marched on, the limitations of the multi-purpose design and the absence of modern amenities became increasingly apparent.
As the twenty-first century dawned, the need for a new, baseball-specific stadium became undeniable. Old Busch had served its purpose admirably, but it was time for a new chapter in St. Louis baseball history. The final game was played at Old Busch, marking the end of an era filled with countless memories. Soon after, demolition commenced, making way for the future.
A New Era Dawns: The Construction of New Busch Stadium
With the passing of the Old Busch era, St. Louis looked forward to a new state of the art baseball stadium. The planning phase for the new stadium involved extensive discussions, consultations with fans, and the incorporation of modern design principles. The goal was to create a ballpark that not only provided an exceptional baseball experience but also paid homage to the city’s rich architectural heritage and iconic landmarks.
Construction began a few years after the final game at the prior location in order to have the stadium ready for opening day. This new construction was carefully planned in order to not interrupt the prior season, or cause it to be played somewhere else.
The new Busch Stadium was designed as a baseball-specific facility, allowing for optimal sightlines, comfortable seating, and a more intimate atmosphere. The architectural style is modern and incorporates classic design elements, creating a timeless aesthetic. The stadium’s most distinctive feature is its breathtaking views of the Gateway Arch, a symbol of St. Louis and a visual connection to the city’s past.
The design of the new stadium was crafted to improve the fan experience, with more concession options, comfortable seating, and modern features. This included adding luxury boxes that would increase revenues and improve the player experience with a new workout facility.
The new Busch Stadium opened its gates, ushering in a new era of St. Louis baseball. The cost of the stadium was over three hundred and sixty million dollars, and much of the funding came from the city, and state.
The new stadium offers a wide range of improvements over its predecessor. The seating arrangement provides better views from virtually every seat in the house. The amenities are state-of-the-art, including a wide variety of food and beverage options, spacious concourses, and interactive fan experiences. The incorporation of technology enhances the overall experience, with large video boards, high-speed internet access, and mobile ticketing options.
Since its opening, the new Busch Stadium has hosted numerous memorable events, including World Series championships, All-Star Games, and concerts by world-renowned artists. It has become a focal point for the city of St. Louis, attracting visitors and boosting the local economy.
The new Busch Stadium continues to evolve, with ongoing renovations and additions that enhance the fan experience. It stands as a testament to the enduring passion for baseball in St. Louis and a symbol of the city’s commitment to providing a world-class entertainment venue.
The Busch Family Connection: A Legacy Etched in Stone
No discussion of Busch Stadium would be complete without acknowledging the significant role played by the Busch family, particularly August Anheuser Busch Jr. and August Anheuser Busch III. The Busch family were the owners of Anheuser-Busch, the beer company, and also the Cardinals.
The stadium was named Busch Stadium in honor of the family. This connection not only reflects the family’s deep ties to the Cardinals but also their commitment to the city of St. Louis.
The Busch family’s influence extended far beyond the naming of the stadium. They were instrumental in shaping the Cardinals’ identity and success, fostering a culture of excellence and community engagement. Their legacy continues to inspire the team and its fans.
The Enduring Legacy of Busch Stadium
So, when was Busch Stadium built? The answer, as we’ve discovered, is multifaceted. The original Busch Stadium, a multi-purpose marvel, opened in the mid nineteen sixties, providing a home for baseball, football, and countless memories for decades. The new Busch Stadium, a state-of-the-art baseball-specific facility, opened its gates, continuing the tradition of providing an unforgettable experience for fans.
Busch Stadium, in both its incarnations, has become more than just a ballpark. It’s a symbol of St. Louis, a place where generations have come together to celebrate the game of baseball and create lasting memories. It’s a testament to the enduring power of sports to unite communities and inspire dreams. It is a venue where multiple generations of fans have seen their teams compete for league championships.
As the Cardinals continue to play on, the legacy of Busch Stadium will undoubtedly continue to grow. It’s a story that is still being written, a story that is filled with passion, tradition, and the unwavering spirit of St. Louis. From the days of Bob Gibson taking the mound to the modern era of Yadier Molina, Albert Pujols and Nolan Arenado, Busch Stadium will continue to be the home to Cardinals Baseball. The Stadium has been a place to gather for generations of families and is one of the most well known landmarks in all of St. Louis.
