Veterans Stadium, a landmark in Philadelphia’s sports history, was more than just a ballpark. It was a place where baseball memories were made, and the Philadelphia Phillies became an integral part of the city’s fabric. Known for its passionate fans and unforgettable moments, “The Vet” stands out in the annals of Major League Baseball (MLB).
Stadium Facts about Veterans Stadium
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Opened On: April 10, 1971
- Closed On: September 28, 2003
- Home Team: Philadelphia Phillies (National League)
- Stadium Nicknames: “The Vet”
- Dimensions: Left Field – 330 feet, Center Field – 408 feet, Right Field – 330 feet
- Capacity: Approximately 62,000
- Attendance Record: 64,924 (September 12, 1993, against the Atlanta Braves)
- Surface: AstroTurf (1971–2000), NexTurf (2001–2003)
- Architect: Hugh Stubbins & Associates; Michael Baker Jr., Inc.
- Owner: City of Philadelphia
The History
Veterans Stadium opened in 1971 as a multi-purpose sports facility, primarily hosting the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Eagles of the NFL. For over three decades, it was a fixture in Philadelphia’s sports landscape, known for its raucous crowds and the passionate support of its home teams.
The stadium’s closing in 2003 marked the end of an era, as it was replaced by the more modern Citizens Bank Park for the Phillies and Lincoln Financial Field for the Eagles. The Vet’s demolition was not just the removal of a structure but the end of a storied chapter in Philadelphia’s sports history.
Design and Features
Veterans Stadium was characteristic of the multi-purpose stadiums built during the 1960s and 1970s, featuring a circular design that accommodated both baseball and football. It was initially celebrated for its modern facilities and capacity to host large crowds.
One of the distinctive features of The Vet was its artificial turf, which was a common element in stadiums of that era. The turf contributed to a unique playing experience, different from the traditional grass fields.
Renovations
Throughout its lifetime, Veterans Stadium underwent several renovations to improve the fan experience and adapt to changing standards. These included updates to the seating, improvements to the concessions and restrooms, and the installation of NexTurf in 2001, a more advanced type of artificial turf.
Despite these renovations, The Vet struggled to keep pace with the newer, more specialized stadiums that were becoming standard in MLB.
Facilities
Veterans Stadium offered a wide range of facilities typical of large stadiums of its time. The concessions served a variety of food and beverages, catering to the tastes of Philadelphia sports fans. The seating, while expansive, offered views that were more suited for football than baseball, a common issue in multi-purpose stadiums.
The Vet was known for its boisterous atmosphere, fostered by passionate Phillies fans, which made attending games a memorable experience.
Memorable Moments at Veterans Stadium
- 1980 World Series: The Phillies winning their first World Series in franchise history.
- 1993 National League Championship: Hosting the dramatic NLCS and the Phillies’ subsequent World Series appearance.
- All-Star Games: Hosting the MLB All-Star Game in 1976 and 1996.
- Mike Schmidt’s Career: The home stadium for the entire career of one of baseball’s greatest third basemen.
- Closing Ceremonies: The emotional farewell to The Vet in 2003, attended by numerous Phillies legends.
Interesting Baseball History at Veterans Stadium
- Rise of the Phillies: The Vet witnessed the evolution of the Phillies into a competitive and successful team in the 1970s and 1980s.
- Unique Playing Conditions: The artificial turf and multipurpose design influenced the style of play.
- Host to Notable Players: Many baseball greats, including Steve Carlton and Pete Rose, played significant parts of their careers at The Vet.
- Fan Culture: Known for its passionate and sometimes rowdy fans, The Vet was a quintessential part of Philadelphia’s sports identity.
Non-Baseball Events
Beyond baseball, Veterans Stadium hosted a variety of events, reflecting its status as a multi-purpose venue. It was the home of the Philadelphia Eagles until 2003 and also hosted large concerts, political events, religious gatherings, and other major community events. The versatility of The Vet as a venue for both sports and entertainment underscored its importance in the cultural and social life of Philadelphia. The range of events held at Veterans Stadium illustrated its role in the broader entertainment landscape of the city.
