Picture this We stand before Matthews Arena a venerable Boston landmark. Its history whispers from the very bricks. This isn’t just any arena. It’s the world’s oldest multi-purpose athletic building still in use. Imagine the echoes within these walls.
Matthews Arena opened in 1910 as the Boston Arena. Its brochure boldly proclaimed it the “most complete home of sport in America”. It was a grand statement for its time. The arena boasted the largest most complete and most elaborate structure dedicated to sports in the world.
This wasn’t just a hockey rink. Oh no. This arena saw it all. Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and Franklin D Roosevelt held rallies here. Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart were honored within its walls. The Boston Bruins played their first-ever NHL game here in 1924 defeating the Montreal Maroons 2-1. It was a momentous occasion a turning point for hockey in the United States.
The arena wasn’t always smooth sailing. Two devastating fires in 1918 and 1948 threatened to destroy it completely. Yet it rose again each time stronger than before. Northeastern University purchased the building in 1979 renaming it Matthews Arena in 1982. The name honors George J Matthews and his wife Hope M Matthews.
But the arena’s story is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about the people the events the games. Sonja Henie a legendary figure skater graced its ice. The Boston Celtics played their very first game here in 1946. Chuck Connors the star center famously shattered the backboard during warm-ups. The Beanpot hockey tournament the legendary rivalry between Boston’s top college teams began here. Musical acts like Jerry Lee Lewis and even Phish performed at Matthews Arena.
Reggie Lewis a Northeastern alum and Boston Celtics star had his funeral service held here in 1993. The city of Boston and Northeastern University paid tribute to this beloved athlete.
Today Matthews Arena continues its legacy. It’s home to Northeastern’s hockey and basketball teams. It hosts graduations convocations and countless other events. It’s a place where history and the present collide. A place where the echoes of the past inspire the future. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of Boston and its love for sports. A visit to Matthews Arena is a journey through time. It’s a step into the heart of Boston’s athletic history. Don’t miss it.