Milwaukee County Stadium, a historic ballpark located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, played a significant role in the city’s baseball history. As the home of the Milwaukee Braves and later the Milwaukee Brewers, it witnessed a plethora of memorable moments and was a beloved icon in the heart of Milwaukee’s baseball community.
Stadium Facts about Milwaukee County Stadium
- Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Opened On: April 14, 1953
- Closed On: September 28, 2000
- Home Team: Milwaukee Braves (National League, 1953–1965), Milwaukee Brewers (American League, 1970–1997; National League, 1998–2000)
- Stadium Nicknames: N/A
- Dimensions: Left Field – 362 feet, Center Field – 402 feet, Right Field – 362 feet
- Capacity: Approximately 53,192
- Attendance Record: 57,299 (September 9, 1957, Milwaukee Braves vs. St. Louis Cardinals)
- Surface: Grass
- Architect: Osborn Engineering
- Owner: Milwaukee County
The History
Milwaukee County Stadium’s history began as a major success story in bringing Major League Baseball back to Milwaukee. Opened in 1953, it was originally built to lure a major league team to the city. The arrival of the Braves from Boston in 1953 marked the beginning of Milwaukee’s journey in Major League Baseball. The stadium was also instrumental in the relocation of the Seattle Pilots to Milwaukee, becoming the Milwaukee Brewers in 1970.
The closure of County Stadium in 2000 marked the end of an era for Milwaukee’s baseball fans, coinciding with the opening of Miller Park, the Brewers’ current home.
Design and Features
Milwaukee County Stadium was designed with a classic ballpark feel, featuring a symmetrical outfield and open concourses. Its design was typical of the era, prioritizing spectator sightlines and maximizing seating capacity. The stadium’s simple yet functional design made it a beloved venue for baseball fans who appreciated its no-frills approach to the game.
One of the notable aspects of County Stadium was its large, manually-operated scoreboard, which added a traditional element to the fan experience. The park’s open-air design provided a natural atmosphere for watching baseball, a feature cherished by many.
Renovations
Throughout its history, County Stadium underwent several renovations to improve the fan experience and modernize its facilities. These included the addition of luxury suites, expansion of seating capacity, and installation of new lighting for night games.
Despite these upgrades, County Stadium retained much of its original charm and continued to be a favorite among baseball fans who valued its history and the memories it held.
Facilities
The facilities at County Stadium were functional and typical of the period. Concession stands offered traditional ballpark fare, and the seating, though lacking some modern comforts, provided great views of the field. The stadium was known for its ample parking and easy access, making it a convenient venue for fans to visit.
While it lacked some of the amenities of newer stadiums, County Stadium was appreciated for its authentic baseball environment and its role as a community gathering place.
Memorable Moments at Milwaukee County Stadium
- Braves’ 1957 World Series Win: Hosting the Braves’ triumph over the New York Yankees.
- First Season of the Milwaukee Brewers: Marking a new chapter in Milwaukee’s baseball history.
- Harvey’s Wallbangers: The 1982 Brewers team, known for their slugging prowess, thrilling fans throughout the season.
- Nolan Ryan’s 300th Win: Achieved in 1990 while playing against the Brewers.
- Final Game: The emotional last game in 2000 before the move to Miller Park.
Interesting Baseball History at Milwaukee County Stadium
- Host to All-Star Games: Welcoming the MLB All-Star Game in 1955 and 1975.
- Legendary Players: The field was graced by numerous baseball greats, including Hank Aaron and Robin Yount.
- Historic Rivalries: Hosting key games against National League and later American League rivals.
- Fan Experience: Known for its enthusiastic and loyal fan base, creating a vibrant atmosphere for home games.
Non-Baseball Events
Apart from baseball, Milwaukee County Stadium hosted a variety of events, showcasing its versatility as a venue. It was a site for concerts, large community gatherings, and even served as a temporary football stadium for the Green Bay Packers. These events underscored the stadium’s importance beyond baseball, serving as a multi-purpose venue in Milwaukee. The range of events held at County Stadium highlighted its role in the broader cultural and entertainment landscape of the city.
