The History of Burnden Park: Unveiling the Secrets of Bolton Wanderers' Former Home
Burnden Park, the former home of Bolton Wanderers Football Club, holds a special place in the hearts of football fans. Located in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England, the stadium was the Trotters’ home from 1895 to 1997. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history of Burnden Park, highlighting 10 amazing facts that will take you on a journey through time.
Facts About Burnden Park
- Initial Capacity: The stadium was initially designed to hold 3,000 spectators, but it eventually expanded to accommodate over 69,000 fans.
- Early Years: Burnden Park was opened on September 9, 1895, with a friendly match between Bolton Wanderers and Darwen. The stadium was built on a site previously used for coal mining and iron production.
- Disaster Strikes: On March 9, 1946, a tragic incident occurred at Burnden Park when 33 spectators were crushed to death and over 400 injured in a human stampede during a match between Bolton Wanderers and Stoke City. This event led to changes in stadium safety regulations.
- Record Attendance: The highest attendance recorded at Burnden Park was 69,912 spectators during a match between Bolton Wanderers and Manchester City on February 18, 1933.
- International Matches: Burnden Park hosted several international football matches, including a 1966 World Cup qualifier between England and Wales.
- Greyhound Racing: During World War II, the stadium was used for greyhound racing, which helped to generate revenue for the club.
- Pop Concerts: In the 1980s, Burnden Park played host to several pop concerts, featuring artists such as David Bowie and Queen.
- Demolition: The stadium was demolished in 1999, two years after Bolton Wanderers moved to their new home, the Reebok Stadium (now known as the University of Bolton Stadium).
- Museum Piece: A section of the original stadium's facade was preserved and is now on display at the Bolton Museum.
- Legacy Lives On: Although Burnden Park is no longer in use, its legacy lives on in the hearts of Bolton Wanderers fans, who remember the stadium as a symbol of the club's rich history and heritage.
🏟️ Note: The site where Burnden Park once stood is now a housing development, with a small memorial plaque commemorating the stadium's history.
The Move to the Reebok Stadium
In 1997, Bolton Wanderers moved to their new home, the Reebok Stadium (now known as the University of Bolton Stadium). The state-of-the-art facility offered improved amenities and a larger capacity, but it lacked the character and history of Burnden Park. The move marked the end of an era for the Trotters, but it also signified a new beginning for the club.
A Look Back at the Stadium's Layout
| Stand | Capacity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Main Stand | 4,500 | The largest stand at Burnden Park, featuring a seating area and press box. |
| Town End | 7,000 | A standing room-only area for home supporters. |
| Embassy Stand | 3,000 | A smaller stand with seating and standing areas. |
| Norman Hunter Stand | 5,000 | A standing room-only area for away supporters. |
📸 Note: The stadium's layout underwent several changes during its lifetime, but the above table represents the final configuration.
Bolton Wanderers’ move to the Reebok Stadium marked the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s history. While Burnden Park is no longer in use, its legacy lives on in the hearts of fans who remember the stadium as a symbol of the club’s rich history and heritage. The memories of the old stadium continue to inspire new generations of Trotters supporters.
In summary, Burnden Park’s history is a testament to the enduring spirit of football and its ability to bring people together. From its humble beginnings to its eventual demolition, the stadium played host to numerous memorable matches, concerts, and events that will be cherished forever.
