Busch Memorial Stadium, also known as Busch Stadium II, was a significant sports venue in St. Louis, Missouri. Its construction marked a pivotal moment in the city's sports history, providing a home for both baseball and football teams. This article delves into the construction process of the stadium and its lasting impact on the St. Louis sports scene.
The Construction Process
The construction of Busch Memorial Stadium began on May 25, 1964, and was completed in 1966. The stadium
was designed by Sverdrup & Parcel and built by Grün & Bilfinger. The roof, known as the "Crown of Arches," was designed by Edward Durell Stone and featured 96 arches that echoed the nearby Gateway Arch, completed just a year before the stadium opened. This design choice was intended to complement the iconic St. Louis skyline.
The stadium was part of a larger urban renewal project aimed at revitalizing downtown St. Louis. The Civic Center Redevelopment Corporation, established in 1959, played a crucial role in this effort. The project included not only the stadium but also parking garages, a hotel, and office buildings. The stadium's construction was a testament to the city's commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and attracting major sports events.
A Multi-Purpose Venue
Busch Memorial Stadium was designed as a multi-purpose facility, serving as the home for the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team and the NFL's Cardinals football team. The stadium's design was similar to other "cookie-cutter" stadiums of the era, which were built to accommodate multiple sports. This versatility was a key factor in its long-term success.
The stadium opened on May 12, 1966, just four days after the last baseball game was played at Sportsman's Park. It quickly became a central hub for sports in St. Louis, hosting numerous memorable events, including the 1966 All-Star Game and a performance by The Beatles. The stadium's ability to host both baseball and football games made it a vital part of the city's sports culture.
Legacy and Demolition
Busch Memorial Stadium served the St. Louis community for 40 years, closing on October 19, 2005. Its final event was the sixth game of the 2005 National League Championship Series. The stadium was demolished in 2006, making way for the new Busch Stadium, which opened to the south of the original site.
The legacy of Busch Memorial Stadium lives on in the memories of the fans who attended games there. It was a symbol of St. Louis's dedication to sports and its ability to adapt to the changing needs of its teams and fans. The stadium's construction and operation were pivotal in shaping the city's sports landscape, leaving a lasting impact that continues to be felt today.
