This Day in History: Three Rivers Stadium is Born

Baseball has always been a cherished sport, and stadiums are the backbone of the game's rich history. Every stadium has its own story to tell, and Three Rivers Stadium is no different. Opened on July 16, 1970, Three Rivers Stadium was a testament to Pittsburgh's love for baseball. The beautiful and unique stadium was home to the Pittsburgh Pirates for over 30 years. Even though it was demolished in 2001, its legacy still remains in the memories of the fans. In this blog post, we'll take a walk down memory lane and remember the opening of Three Rivers Stadium on July 16, 1970.

Three Rivers Stadium was built to replace the old Forbes Field, which was a much smaller and outdated stadium. The construction of Three Rivers Stadium was no small feat, as it was built on a huge 70-acre site. The stadium was constructed in a record time of under 30 months, and it was meant to be a multi-purpose stadium that offered a comfortable experience for the fans.

The opening of Three Rivers Stadium on July 16, 1970, was a grand affair. The stadium was packed with fans eagerly waiting for the start of the first-ever game in the stadium. The first game was played between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds, and the atmosphere was electric. The Pirates won the game 3-2, and it was a memorable day for everyone present at the stadium.

Three Rivers Stadium was a groundbreaking stadium when it opened, as it was the first of its kind to be built entirely of concrete and steel. It was also the first stadium to have a built-in luxury suite section. The stadium's unique "cookie-cutter" design provided the perfect backdrop for baseball games and other events, including concerts, political rallies, and sporting events.

Over the years, Three Rivers Stadium witnessed some of the most iconic moments in baseball history. The stadium hosted the 1971 All-Star Game, the 1979 World Series, and many other significant baseball games. The stadium also hosted other sporting events like football, soccer, and monster truck rallies.

The demolition of Three Rivers Stadium in 2001 marked the end of an era in baseball history. But it will always be remembered as one of the most iconic stadiums in the world of baseball. The stadium provided countless memorable moments to baseball fans across generations. Memorabilia collectors and baseball fans alike will continue to cherish the memories and mementos associated with Three Rivers Stadium. It was more than just a concrete and steel structure; it was a temple of baseball where dreams came true. The opening of Three Rivers Stadium on July 16, 1970, will always be remembered as one of the most significant events in the history of Pittsburgh sports.

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