Where Were the Arizona Cardinals Before Arizona?
The Arizona Cardinals, a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL), have a rich history that predates their relocation to the Grand Canyon State. Before settling in Arizona, the team had a long-standing presence in two other cities, each contributing to their unique identity and legacy.
The story of the Cardinals began in Chicago, Illinois, in 1898. Initially known as the Decatur Staleys, the team was founded by Chris O’Brien and was one of the charter members of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), which later became the NFL. The team played in the city of Decatur for a brief period before moving to Chicago in 1920. The name “Cardinals” was adopted in 1946, reflecting the red birds that are the state bird of Illinois.
For the first three decades of their existence, the Cardinals were based in Chicago. They played their home games at Comiskey Park, now known as Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the Chicago White Sox. The team experienced both triumphs and tribulations during this time, including their first NFL championship in 1925 and a long stretch of futility that lasted until the 1940s.
In 1952, the Cardinals decided to move to St. Louis, Missouri. The team was looking for a fresh start and saw the opportunity to establish a new fan base in the growing city of St. Louis. The Cardinals played at Busch Memorial Stadium, now known as Busch Stadium II, for the next 38 years. During their time in St. Louis, the team won their second NFL championship in 1947 and became a staple in the community.
The Cardinals’ move to Arizona in 1988 marked the beginning of a new chapter in their history. The team was looking to expand its market and saw the potential in the growing Phoenix area. The Cardinals played their first season in Arizona at Sun Devil Stadium, home of the Arizona State University Sun Devils. In 1995, the team moved to their current home, State Farm Stadium, which has become a symbol of the franchise’s commitment to the state.
The relocation to Arizona has brought the Cardinals a new fan base and a fresh start. While the team has yet to win a Super Bowl in the state, they have enjoyed success on the field and have become a beloved part of the community. The Cardinals’ journey from Chicago to St. Louis to Arizona is a testament to their resilience and adaptability as a franchise, and it is a story that continues to unfold in the heart of the Grand Canyon State.
