Rich Westcott

Shibe Park / Connie Mack Stadium (Images of Sports) Rich Westcott

No ballpark in Philadelphia was more revered than the one at

Twenty-first Street and Lehigh Avenue. Originally called Shibe

Park and later Connie Mack Stadium, it opened in 1909 as

America's first steel-and-concrete stadium. When it closed in

1970, it had earned a special place in the hearts and minds of

Philadelphia sports fans. Home of the Athletics for 46 years, the

Phillies for 32 and a half seasons, and the Eagles for 18 years, it

was also the site of many boxing matches, Negro League baseball

games, and college and high school baseball and football games.

Over the years, as the area developed, Shibe Park became known

for its obstructed views, delicious hot dogs, Sunday curfews,

absence of beer, and boobirds. Along with memorable teams and

games, the ballpark played host to eight World Series and two

All-Star Games.