Boleyn Ground facts for kids
The Boleyn Ground, also known as Upton Park, was a famous football stadium in London, England. For many years, it was the home ground for the football club West Ham United. This stadium was a very important place for the club and its fans.
Contents
History of the Boleyn Ground
The Boleyn Ground was built in 1904. It was named after a large house nearby called Boleyn Castle. This house was once owned by Anne Boleyn, who was one of King Henry VIII's wives. The stadium was often called Upton Park because of the area it was in.
Early Years and Development
When it first opened, the stadium could hold about 18,000 people. Over the years, it was changed and made bigger many times. New stands were built to give more fans a place to watch the games. These changes helped the stadium become a modern football ground.
Important Matches and Moments
Many exciting football matches were played at the Boleyn Ground. West Ham United played all their home games there for over a hundred years. The stadium saw many famous players and historic moments in English football. It was a place where fans shared many happy and sometimes sad memories.
Life at the Stadium
The Boleyn Ground was more than just a place to play football. It was a big part of the local community. On match days, the area around the stadium would be full of fans. They would wear their team's colours and cheer loudly for West Ham United.
The Stands of the Boleyn Ground
The stadium had several main stands, each with its own name. These included the Bobby Moore Stand, named after a legendary West Ham captain. There was also the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand and the East Stand. Each stand offered a different view of the pitch and had its own atmosphere.
The Bobby Moore Stand
The Bobby Moore Stand was one of the most famous parts of the stadium. It was named after Bobby Moore, who led England to win the World Cup in 1966. He was also a hero for West Ham United. This stand was a special tribute to his amazing career.
Moving to a New Home
After more than 112 years, West Ham United decided to move to a new stadium. The Boleyn Ground was getting old, and the club needed a bigger, more modern place. The last game at the Boleyn Ground was played on May 10, 2016. It was an emotional day for many fans.
The Final Match
The very last match at the Boleyn Ground was against Manchester United. West Ham won the game 3-2. It was a memorable way to say goodbye to their historic home. After this match, the stadium was closed.
What Happened Next
After the club moved out, the Boleyn Ground was taken down. New homes and buildings are now being built on the site where the stadium once stood. While the stadium is gone, its history and memories live on for West Ham fans.
Images for kids
-
Winston Reid, scorer of the last goal at the Boleyn Ground
-
The North Bank, 1991, before redevelopment.
-
The Sir Trevor Brooking Stand.
-
Boleyn Ground view from the East Stand before kick-off in the FA Cup against Liverpool, one of the last night games to be played at the venue.
-
The East Stand
-
The Bobby Moore Stand
-
The South Bank, Boleyn Ground, 1991, before redevelopment
See also
In Spanish: Boleyn Ground para niños
