Veterans Memorial Stadium

“Touchdown!” roars the crowd at Veterans Memorial Stadium. But this isn’t just any game. It’s the annual Thanksgiving Day clash between Quincy High and North Quincy High. This tradition, held at Veterans Memorial Stadium since 1932, has been dubbed one of the best in America by Sports Illustrated. Veterans Memorial Stadium itself, nestled in Quincy, Massachusetts, has a rich history. Built between 1937 and 1938 as part of the Works Progress Administration, this stadium has witnessed countless moments of sporting glory. The stadium sits on land that’s part of Merrymount Park, gifted to the city by the Adams family. It replaced an older athletic field called Pfaffman’s Oval. Originally, the stadium had a simple dirt track and a natural amphitheater for spectators. After several failed funding attempts, construction finally began in January 1937. Veterans Memorial Stadium officially opened on September 25, 1938, with Senator Henry Cabot Lodge Jr. in attendance. In the 1960s, even the Boston Patriots held preseason scrimmages here for charity. Veterans Memorial Stadium isn’t just for football. In 1976, it served as the home stadium for the Boston Minutemen soccer team of the North American Soccer League. The stadium has seen significant renovations over the years. A $1.2 million upgrade in 2006 brought accessibility improvements and new synthetic turf, making it suitable for lacrosse, rugby, and soccer. Another $1.5 million renovation in 2018 replaced bleachers with chair-back seats, increased capacity, and added a massive electronic video board. More recently, the Boston Cannons lacrosse team called Veterans Memorial Stadium home for the 2019 season. Since 2021, it has hosted the New England Free Jacks of Major League Rugby. The stadium also hosts the Massachusetts Instrumental and Choral Conductors Association State Finals for marching band. Veterans Memorial Stadium has become more than just a sports venue. It embodies the spirit of community and the legacy of those it honors.