Maybe you never heard of Miami Marine Stadium. It's someplace that you should know about. The long-dormant venue is a true architectural and cultural masterpiece. According to an organization that is called Friends of Miami Marine Stadium, the place was dedicated on December 23, 1963. Back then, it was named Ralph Munroe Marine Stadium. You could call it an intimate site for events - it only seats 6,566 people. The architect was Hilaria Candela. He was just 28 years old at that time. The stadium was and is "considered a Modernist icon...." It even earned a spot in the National Register of Historic Places.
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Miami Marine Stadium Has a Rich History
Its history is colorful. According to the New York Post, "The historic gem designed by a Cuban refugee was the backdrop of Elvis Presley's 1967 film 'Clambake' and a beloved venue of Gloria Estefan and the late Jimmy Buffett...." The "Margaritaville" singer whimsically named it the "little cathedral of musical fun." It was also a great place to watch powerboats. Entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. appeared there in 1972 with Richard Nixon at an event to support Nixon's campaign for president.
One local official mentioned the emotions that Miami Marine Stadium evokes in many residents. Miami Commissioner Damian Pardo observed, "It encapsulated a time period in Miami that's incredibly unique with an incredible story that touches all Miamians. So this is really a place that connects with Miami at a very deep and personal level."
Hope Is on the Horizon for the Stadium
However, Miami Marine Stadium unfortunately fell on hard times. After it closed in 1992 because of damage from Hurricane Andrew, the venue got dilapidated from lack if use and upkeep. Now, though, it seems that the stadium may come back to life again. On Tuesday, per USA Today, voters approved a measure that would permit the city to join up with a private company, Global Spectrum L.P., in order to restore the stadium to its former grandeur and usefulness.
It is the realization of a long-held dream of many to have this venue again be the once-lively site that it was for years. That dream just took a big step toward coming true.
