Parade Stadium: A Historic Minneapolis Landmark

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of the Minneapolis park system, Parade Stadium stands as a testament to the city's rich sports history. From its humble beginnings as a horse racing track to its role as a beloved venue for major sporting events, the stadium has witnessed countless moments of athleticism and community pride. This comprehensive guide to Parade Stadium will delve into its fascinating past, present attractions, and future prospects, showcasing its enduring legacy as a Minneapolis icon.

History

The origins of Parade Stadium can be traced back to 1878, when it was established as the Minneapolis Driving Park, a horse racing track located in the city's Near North neighborhood. In the early 20th century, the track was converted into a baseball stadium, hosting the Minneapolis Millers of the American Association. The stadium gained national prominence in 1924 when it hosted the Republican National Convention, at which Calvin Coolidge was nominated for president.

Transition: Over the years, Parade Stadium underwent several renovations and expansions, evolving into a multi-purpose venue that hosted a wide range of sporting events and community gatherings.

Golden Age

The stadium's golden age occurred during the 1950s and 1960s, when it became the home of the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). From 1961 to 1981, the Vikings played their home games at Parade Stadium, captivating fans with their exciting brand of football. The stadium also hosted numerous other major events, including concerts, soccer matches, and rodeos, cementing its status as a premier sports and entertainment destination.

Transition: However, the stadium's golden age came to an end in 1982, when the Vikings moved to the newly built Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome. Despite its diminished role in professional sports, Parade Stadium continued to serve the community as a venue for high school football games, concerts, and other events.

Restoration and Revitalization

In 2014, the city of Minneapolis embarked on a major restoration and revitalization project for Parade Stadium. The project included a complete renovation of the seating bowl, concourses, and press box, as well as the addition of new amenities such as a video scoreboard, concession stands, and restrooms. The restored stadium reopened in 2015 to much fanfare, regaining its place as a beloved community gathering space.

Present Attractions

Today, Parade Stadium is a popular destination for a variety of sports and entertainment events. It is the home of the Minneapolis North Stars of the United States Hockey League (USHL), and several high schools in the Minneapolis area use the stadium for their football games. The stadium also hosts concerts, festivals, and other community events throughout the year.

Table 1: Parade Stadium Capacity

Community Pride

Parade Stadium is more than just a sports facility; it is a symbol of community pride for the people of Minneapolis. The stadium has been a gathering place for generations of residents, who have shared countless memories of athletic triumphs, community celebrations, and family outings. The stadium's ongoing restoration and revitalization efforts are a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its history and ensuring its future vitality.

Table 2: Parade Stadium History Timeline

Stories of Parade Stadium

1. The "Miracle of Minnehaha": In 1938, the Minneapolis Central High School football team played a legendary game at Parade Stadium against the rival St. Paul Johnson team. With just seconds remaining in the game, Minneapolis Central's quarterback, Henry Lenk, threw a desperation pass that was caught by Mel Nygaard in the end zone, giving Minneapolis Central a thrilling 6-0 victory. The game became known as the "Miracle of Minnehaha" and is still celebrated by Minneapolis fans today.

2. The "Metrodome Mudders": During the infamous 1992 All-Star Game, torrential rain flooded the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, forcing the game to be postponed. The next day, the game was moved to Parade Stadium, where it was played in a driving rainstorm. Despite the miserable conditions, the fans remained enthusiastic, and the game was eventually won by the American League, who scored four runs in the bottom of the ninth inning.

3. The "Purple People Eaters": In the 1960s, the Vikings defense became known as the "Purple People Eaters" due to their ferocious play. Led by legendary players such as Jim Marshall and Alan Page, the Vikings defense was one of the most dominant in the NFL, helping the team win several division championships. Parade Stadium was the home field of the "Purple People Eaters," and fans still revere the memory of their legendary performances.

Table 3: Parade Stadium Events

Legacy and Future

Parade Stadium has played an integral role in the history of Minneapolis, serving as a stage for countless sporting events, community gatherings, and cultural landmarks. The stadium's ongoing restoration and revitalization efforts ensure that it will continue to play a vital role in the community for generations to come. As a symbol of the city's rich sports heritage and community spirit, Parade Stadium will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans.

FAQs

1. What is the capacity of Parade Stadium?
   - The capacity of Parade Stadium varies depending on the event type. For football games, it is 10,000; for hockey games, it is 5,000; and for concerts, it is 15,000.

2. When was Parade Stadium built?
   - Parade Stadium was originally built in 1878 as the Minneapolis Driving Park.

3. Why is Parade Stadium known as the "Miracle of Minnehaha"?
   - In 1938, Minneapolis Central High School won a legendary football game at Parade Stadium against St. Paul Johnson with a last-second touchdown pass. The game became known as the "Miracle of Minnehaha."

4. Who were the "Purple People Eaters"?
   - The "Purple People Eaters" were the nickname of the Vikings defense in the 1960s. Led by legendary players such as Jim Marshall and Alan Page, the defense was one of the most dominant in the NFL.

5. What is the future of Parade Stadium?
   - Parade Stadium has undergone a major restoration and revitalization project, which ensures its future vitality as a community gathering space. The stadium will continue to host sporting events, concerts, festivals, and other community events for generations to come.

Call to Action

Visit Parade Stadium today to experience its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you are a sports fan, a music lover, or simply looking for a fun family outing, Parade Stadium offers something for everyone. Check the stadium's website for upcoming events and schedule your visit.

Conclusion

Parade Stadium is a true Minneapolis landmark, a testament to the city's rich sports history and community spirit. From its humble beginnings as a horse racing track to its role as a beloved venue for major sporting events, the stadium has witnessed countless moments of athleticism and community pride. The stadium's ongoing restoration and revitalization efforts ensure that it will continue to play a vital role in the community for generations to come.