The Chicago Cardinals Move to St. Louis in 1960

Name: The Chicago Cardinals Move to St. Louis in 1960
Start: 1898-03-13
Location: Unspecified

An End of an Era: The Chicago Cardinals' Relocation

In 1960, one of the most significant changes in professional football history took place when the Chicago Cardinals, one of the oldest teams in the National Football League (NFL), announced their relocation to St. Louis. This move marked a pivotal moment not just for the franchise, but for the city of St. Louis, signaling its ascent in the world of professional sports. The Cardinals' journey began in 1898, but by 1960, the combination of declining attendance and financial struggles had made it necessary for the team to seek a fresh start.

The Cardinals had faced numerous challenges while in Chicago, including not being able to compete effectively with the more popular Chicago Bears. Despite their historical significance as one of the founding teams of the NFL, the franchise struggled to fill stadium seats, which ultimately led to considerations of relocation. The decision to shift to St. Louis represented a hope for revitalization and new opportunities.

The Move to St. Louis

In St. Louis, the Cardinals found an enthusiastic fan base eager to embrace a professional football team. The move was officially announced in 1960, paving the way for the Cardinals to play their first game in the brand new Busch Memorial Stadium in 1966. This new era allowed the franchise to establish deeper roots within the community while benefiting from a fresh market, which previously had limited options for national sports.

What Impact Did This Move Have?

The Cardinals' relocation to St. Louis had significant ramifications. For the fans in St. Louis, it meant the arrival of a major professional sports team. The relocation re-energized the local sports community, fostering a loyalty and support that would help the franchise thrive over the coming decades. For the NFL, it also meant an expansion of its reach and the establishment of football as a prominent sport in different parts of the country.

Challenges in the New City

While the initial excitement was palpable, the Cardinals faced their own set of challenges after relocating to St. Louis. The franchise struggled with performance on the field, often finishing at the lower end of the division standings, which put pressure on attendance and local support.

Performance and Fan Expectations

Despite the move, the St. Louis Cardinals struggled with consistency on the field. In the years that followed, the team faced challenges in securing victories and overcoming tough competition. This inconsistency led to fluctuating attendance numbers, as fans became disillusioned due to unmet expectations.

Legacy of the Relocation

Today, the legacy of the Cardinals' move to St. Louis is a complex one. While the franchise ultimately relocated again to Arizona in 1988, the resounding impact of their time in St. Louis can still be felt. The Cardinals reignited interest in professional football in a region that had long been overlooked. The historical significance of this transition has paved the way for future NFL franchises considering relocation.

Fun Fact: The Cardinals' Origin

Did You Know?

The Chicago Cardinals are one of the NFL's oldest teams, tracing their roots back to 1898. They started as a semi-pro team and became part of the NFL in 1920. This long and storied history underscores the significance of their eventual move to St. Louis in 1960.