Now well over 100 years old, regarded as one of the most important sports stadiums in the world, and a top historical destination for tourists, it seems pretty obvious to me that Wrigley Field is a landmark. Whatever official designation you want to give it, Wrigley Field deserves it. I don’t think you have to be a Cubs fan or even a baseball fan to acknowledge that reality.
So, this seems like wholly appropriate good news today: according to ESPN, today Wrigley Field will receive National Historic Landmark status in the National Register of Historic Places. There are 90,000+ historic places on that list, but only about 2,500 (about 3%) qualify for National Historic Landmark status. Wrigley Field is special.
UPDATING, because it’s happened:
Wrigley Field has been designated as a National Historic Landmark, affirming its significance to the city of Chicago, professional sports and American history and culture.
A Hall of Fame recognition that will preserve the Friendly Confines for generations of fans to come. pic.twitter.com/6AD5MUtLNF
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) November 19, 2020
The Ricketts Family originally applied for the status back when they started the Wrigley Field renovations seven years ago, as you are entitled to tax credits if you renovate/restore/preserve historic landmarks. With the renovation complete and the landmark preserved for many years to come, those tax credits – worth millions, according to the ESPN report – should be forthcoming. Nudge nudge, something something ….
In any case, this is a pretty cool honor for Wrigley Field, and I can’t wait to go to an official National Historic Landmark very soon. Maybe summer? Maybe? Hopefully?