The Wrigley Field Story
In March 1914, construction began on what is now known as Wrigley Field. At a cost of $250,000, Wrigley Field remains one of the oldest parks in baseball history. Located in Chicago, this facility is the home of the Chicago Cubs. At first, 10 investors bought the team. In later years, however, each owner sold his remaining shares to William Wrigley Jr., who was first known for Wrigley gum. In 1926, the stadium was renamed Cubs Park to Wrigley Field in honor of its owner.
Many firsts were started at Wrigley Field, including permanent concession stands and permission for fans to keep foul balls hit in the stands. The stands and scoreboard were built in 1937 and are still manually operated. By the way, the marker has not yet been hit with a ball in play. Ironically, however, he was hit by a golf ball thrown by Sam Snead inside the stadium. Bill Veek, who built the bleachers and scoreboard, is also responsible for the landscaping around Wrigley Field.
In August 1988, the lights went up for the first night game to be played at Wrigley Field. After more than 5,000 games in the afternoon, the Chicago Cubs were scheduled to meet under the lights for the first time on home turf against Philadelphia. While the game was initially rained out, the New York Mets arrived the following night and were beaten as the Chicago Cubs earned the 6–4 victory.
Many of baseball’s great historical moments occurred at Wrigley Field, including Ernie Banks hitting his 500th home run in 1970, Babe Ruth’s “marked shot” in Game 3 of the 1932 World Series, Pete Rose tying Ty Cobb with 4,191 hits in baseball history in 1985, Sammy Sosa’s 60th home runs in 1998, 1999 and 2001. Additionally, fans witnessed Gabby Hartnett’s famous “Homer in the Gloamin” against Mace Brown of the Pirates in 1938.
Wrigley Field, which is the last remaining Federal League park, also remains one of the most traditional venues in the sport of baseball. Most of the facility has been kept ad-free with only a few remaining in the entire park. The flags, located on the grounds of Wrigley Field, continue to remind fans whether the Chicago Cubs are winning or losing in the standings. Although it is the current home of the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field has hosted more professional football games than any other stadium in the United States. In 2005, Wrigley Field celebrated 92 seasons as host to Major League Baseball and 90 years as the home of the Chicago Cubs.
Collectors wishing to request an autograph from any of the players on the Chicago Cubs roster should send their letter and a SASE (stamped, self-addressed envelope) to:
Player’s name
c/o Chicago Cubs
wrigley field
1060 West Addison St.
Chicago, IL 60613-4397
Fans requesting an autograph should limit their request to two items per letter. Popular items that are signed include photos, index or trading cards, baseballs, etc. Patience is key when soliciting autographs by mail, but the best time to contact an athlete is often in the off-season.
