Where did the Chicago Cubs play before Wrigley Field?
The Chicago Cubs, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, have a rich history that dates back to their founding in 1870. Before the iconic Wrigley Field became their home in 1916, the Cubs played their games at several different locations in Chicago. This article will explore the various venues where the Cubs took the field before Wrigley Field became their permanent home.
1. South Side Park (1871-1890)
The Cubs’ first home was South Side Park, which was located on the South Side of Chicago. This ballpark was the site of the first game in the National League, played on April 22, 1876. South Side Park was a wooden grandstand, and it was the first ballpark to be called a “park” in baseball history. The Cubs played at this venue for 19 seasons before moving to a new location.
2. West Side Park (1893-1897)
After leaving South Side Park, the Cubs moved to West Side Park, which was located on the West Side of Chicago. This ballpark was a much larger facility than South Side Park, with a capacity of over 20,000. The Cubs played at West Side Park for five seasons, during which they won their first World Series in 1890. However, the ballpark was in a poor location, and it was decided to move the team to a new venue.
3. White City Park (1898-1901)
The Cubs’ next home was White City Park, which was located on the Near West Side of Chicago. This ballpark was a temporary home for the team, as it was built for the World’s Fair in 1893. The Cubs played at White City Park for four seasons, and it was during this time that they won their second World Series in 1907. However, the ballpark was not suitable for a professional baseball team, and the Cubs were looking for a more permanent home.
4. Cubs Park (1902-1914)
The Cubs’ fourth home was Cubs Park, which was located at 440 West 18th Street in Chicago. This ballpark was the first to be named after the team, and it was built specifically for the Cubs. Cubs Park was a wooden grandstand, similar to South Side Park, and it was the site of many memorable games throughout the early 20th century. The Cubs played at Cubs Park for 12 seasons before moving to Wrigley Field.
5. Wrigley Field (1916-Present)
Finally, in 1916, the Cubs moved to their iconic home, Wrigley Field. This ballpark, designed by William Wrigley Jr., has become synonymous with the Chicago Cubs and baseball history. Wrigley Field has undergone several renovations over the years, but it remains one of the most beloved ballparks in the United States. The Cubs have played at Wrigley Field for over a century, and it continues to be the heart and soul of the franchise.
In conclusion, the Chicago Cubs played at several different venues before settling into their iconic home at Wrigley Field. From South Side Park to Cubs Park, each location played a significant role in the team’s history and development. Today, Wrigley Field stands as a testament to the Cubs’ enduring legacy in baseball.
