The Dodgers Move: 1957 Los Angeles City Council Approves Chavez Ravine

Name: The Dodgers Move: 1957 Los Angeles City Council Approves Chavez Ravine
Start: 1957-09-16
Location: Unspecified

Historic Approval for a Baseball Home

In a pivotal moment for sports in Los Angeles, on February 9, 1957, the Los Angeles City Council made a groundbreaking decision to approve a 300-acre site in Chavez Ravine as the new home for the Brooklyn Dodgers. This monumental move not only marked the transition of the Dodgers from Brooklyn to Los Angeles but also forever changed the landscape of professional baseball on the West Coast.

Chavez Ravine: A Transformation of Space

The site in Chavez Ravine was originally home to a vibrant neighborhood, populated mainly by Mexican-American families. The construction of Dodger Stadium required the evacuation of these residents, sparking significant controversy and placing the city council's decision under scrutiny. The Dodgers viewed Chavez Ravine as a prime location because of its proximity to downtown Los Angeles and its potential for creating a world-class baseball stadium.

The Dodgers' Journey West

The Dodgers' move was precipitated by the franchise's challenging relationship with Brooklyn's Ebbets Field, which lacked necessary space and amenities to host large crowds. The decision to relocate amidst the burgeoning population of Los Angeles represents a landmark change in Major League Baseball, making it the first major league franchise to settle on the West Coast. This move was seen as a strategic advantage to tap into the growing fan base in California.

Community Response and its Impact

The approval of the site was met with mixed reactions. While many baseball fans celebrated the arrival of the Dodgers, others were deeply concerned about the displacement of residents. The construction of Dodger Stadium began shortly after the city council’s approval, leading to a lasting impact on the community and the layout of Los Angeles.

A Divided Opinion in the Community

Residents of Chavez Ravine expressed their concerns, as many were forced to leave their homes and communities. The promise of development brought mixed feelings as some viewed the Dodgers' arrival as an opportunity for economic growth while others lamented the loss of their neighborhoods. The city's handling of the situation would later raise questions about urban development and community rights.

Dodger Stadium's Cultural Significance

Since its opening in 1962, Dodger Stadium has become an iconic landmark in Los Angeles. Catering to over 56,000 fans, it stands as one of the largest and most revered ballparks in the country. The stadium is not just a sports venue but a central piece of Los Angeles culture, embodying the spirit of the city and its passion for baseball.

Fun Fact

Dodger Stadium's Unique Design

Did you know that Dodger Stadium is the third oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball? It uniquely features a breathtaking backdrop of the San Gabriel mountains, making the view during night games nothing short of spectacular.