Historic Matthews Arena

Matthews Arena, Boston

What is it that attracts us to old sports facilities? In an era when virtually every major sports team (and many minor ones) clamor for modern facilities, many knowledgeable fans seek out and celebrate classic venues. Perhaps it is those of us trying to recapture the pure thrill of competition and sports we experienced as children. 

When one thinks about historic sports venues in Boston, the natural first thought is Fenway. Yet, the old city has more hidden treasures. Opened in 1910, Matthews Arena is the nation's oldest multifunction sports facility and the oldest sheet of ice in hockey. Since 1930 it has been the home of the Northeastern University Huskies hockey team. Previously, however, it was the original home of the Boston Bruins (1924-1928) and the only "Original Six" arena still extant. Other tenants have included the Boston Celtics (basketball, 1946-1955) and the New England Whalers (1972-1973) of the World Hockey League.

Obstructed view seats

Although the arena has been renovated several times there are some distinctive features. The ceiling of the barn is made of planks of wood. There are numerous obstructed-view seats, especially in the top level of the arena. Rather than side-by-side, the benches are across the ice from one another. 

With an arena this old, it is hard to avoid a sense of nostalgia. The photographs in the lobby contains team pictures dating back to 1929. Banners in the rafters tell of a great tradition, but limited success in conference play and at the national level. But this is not the grandeur of the arena. Instead, it is in the bricks and mortar, the seats and the memories of over a decade of entertainment, joys and sorrows, friendship and comradery.