The naming of the iconic ballpark on Chicago’s north side is directly attributable to the Wrigley family’s long-standing ownership and association with the Chicago Cubs baseball team. The stadium’s moniker reflects a common practice of corporate naming rights, a significant revenue stream in modern sports, but its roots are tied to the historical context of family ownership in early 20th-century baseball.
The name represents more than just a business transaction; it’s deeply woven into the fabric of the franchise and the city itself. William Wrigley Jr., the chewing gum magnate, purchased the Cubs in 1921. The stadium, originally Weeghman Park, was renamed Cubs Park in 1920, and then formally became identified with the family’s brand in 1927. This association provided brand visibility and solidified the Wrigley name within popular culture, contributing to the stadium’s enduring legacy and its status as a cultural landmark. The stadium became inseparable from the chewing gum company, impacting perceptions of both the team and the brand.