Chicago Bears' Journey from Wrigley Field to Soldier Field: A Historical Overview

Introduction

The history of the Chicago Bears, one of the oldest franchises in the National Football League (NFL), is marked by a significant change in stadiums. From their original home at Wrigley Field to Soldier Field, and now looking towards an exciting new future, the Bears have experienced a fascinating journey. This article delves into their transition from Wrigley Field to Soldier Field, highlighting key moments and impacts throughout their history.

The Early Years at Wrigley Field (1921-1970)

The First Years

When the Chicago Bears began their NFL journey in 1920, they were originally part of a football league. The team moved to the NFL in 1921 and began playing at Wrigley Field, the iconic home of the Chicago Cubs. For nearly five decades, Wrigley Field served as the Bears' home ground, hosting numerous memorable games and becoming an important part of Chicago sports history. From 1921 to 1970, the Bears played at this legendary stadium, showcasing their talent and tradition.

The Last Years at Wrigley Field

The last Chicago Bears game at Wrigley Field was in December 1970. During this period, the Bears became one of the most successful teams in the league, with multiple playoff appearances, including the famous 1940 and 1941 NFL championships.

Transition to Soldier Field (1971-2002)

Moving to Soldier Field

After the Bears left Wrigley Field, they moved to Soldier Field, located in Fuller Park on the city's lakefront. The Bears acquired ownership of Soldier Field in 1971, and it quickly became their new home. Although it was not their original intention, Soldier Field would also serve as a home for the University of Illinois football team from 1971 to 1982, marking a significant period of shared stadium history in Chicago.

Soldier Field and Owning the Dating

From 1986 to 2002, the Bears were the only NFL team that owned the stadium where they played. This unusual arrangement came to an end when Soldier Field was sold to the City of Chicago in 2002. In the years that followed, a major renovation took place, with the Bears serving as the temporary home team at the University of Illinois' football stadium until the stadium was remodeled and reopened in 2003. However, due to the renovations, Soldier Field lost much of its historical status.

The Future of the Chicago Bears: Arlington Raceway and Beyond

Plans for Arlington Raceway

The Chicago Bears have recently purchased the closed Arlington Raceway in Arlington Heights, a suburb of Chicago, and have ambitious plans in store. The owners hope to build a state-of-the-art indoor stadium and an entertainment complex that will become the new home of the Bears. This project is still in the planning stages, but it promises to be an exciting development in the city's sports landscape.

The Future of Soldier Field

The Bears' current lease at Soldier Field is set to expire in 2029. Whether or not the Bears will continue to play there or find a new home elsewhere is a matter of speculation. Regardless, the Bears have a rich history rooted in Soldier Field and a promising future that seems to lie beyond.

Conclusion

The Chicago Bears' journey from Wrigley Field to Soldier Field and their potential future endeavors highlight the dynamic nature of professional sports. As the Bears continue to evolve, their history remains a testament to their storied past and the changing landscape of Chicago's sports scene.