Before the construction of Ford Field, the Detroit Lions played their home games in a different stadium. The history of the Lions' previous stadium is a fascinating tale that deserves to be told. In this article, we will take a look back at the stadium that served as the Lions' home for over 30 years.
With a seating capacity of 80,000, the Lions' previous stadium was one of the largest in the NFL. It was built in 1975 and was initially named the Pontiac Silverdome. The stadium was a marvel of modern engineering and was designed to be completely weatherproof. It featured a Teflon-coated fiberglass roof that was held up by air pressure. The roof was so strong that it could support the weight of a car.
The Construction of the Pontiac Silverdome
The construction of the Pontiac Silverdome was a massive undertaking. The stadium was built in just over two years and cost $55.7 million to build. It was designed by the architectural firm of O'Dell, Hewlett & Luckenbach and was built by the construction company of Barton Malow. The stadium was owned by the City of Pontiac and was operated by the Triple Investment Group.
The stadium was built on a 127-acre site and featured ample parking for fans. It was designed to be a multi-purpose stadium and could be used for a wide range of events. In addition to football games, the stadium hosted concerts, conventions, and other sporting events.
The Lions' Tenure at the Pontiac Silverdome
The Detroit Lions played their first game at the Pontiac Silverdome on August 23, 1975. They defeated the Kansas City Chiefs by a score of 27-24. The Lions played their home games at the Silverdome for over 30 years, until 2001.
During their tenure at the Silverdome, the Lions had some memorable moments. In 1991, they won their first playoff game in over 30 years when they defeated the Dallas Cowboys. In 1994, they set an NFL record for the most points scored in a single game when they defeated the Minnesota Vikings by a score of 58-37.
The End of an Era
In 2001, the Detroit Lions moved to a new stadium, Ford Field. The Silverdome was used for a few more years, but it eventually fell into disrepair. The stadium was finally closed in 2013 and was sold at auction for just $583,000.
Today, the Silverdome is a shell of its former self. The roof has collapsed, and the stadium is in a state of disrepair. However, it will always have a special place in the hearts of Lions fans. For over 30 years, it was the home of the Lions and provided many memorable moments.
The Legacy of the Pontiac Silverdome
The Pontiac Silverdome was much more than just a stadium. It was a symbol of the Lions' success and a source of pride for the City of Pontiac. It was a venue that brought people together and created memories that will last a lifetime.
Today, the legacy of the Silverdome lives on. It serves as a reminder of the Lions' past and the role that the stadium played in the team's history. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of maintaining and preserving our sports venues.
Conclusion
The Pontiac Silverdome was a remarkable stadium that played an important role in the history of the Detroit Lions. While it may be gone, it will never be forgotten. It will always be remembered as the place where the Lions played for over 30 years, and where they created many lasting memories.
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