The History of the Humphrey Metrodome
The Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome has been the home of the Minnesota Twins for the past two decades. After opening its doors in April 1982, it became the third vaulted facility in the sport of baseball. Construction began in the winter of 1979 and was completed at $68 million, under budget, with the approval of the state of Minnesota. The Minnesota Twins home field is comprised of 20 acres and is located in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. In a matter of hours, the dome can be converted from a baseball facility to a soccer facility and vice versa. The total field area measures 142,515 square feet, features a 10-acre Teflon-coated roof, and rises 16 stories toward the downtown skyline.
As its name implies, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome was named in honor of one of Minnesota’s most famous public figures. Humphrey, who died in 1978, once served as Minneapolis mayor, senator, and vice president of the United States. The metrodome was named for the man who contributed greatly to both the state of Minnesota and the entire country in which he resides.
With the capacity to hold more than 45,000 baseball fans, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome has welcomed a total of more than 55 million spectators since it opened in 1982. Fans of the Minnesota Twins typically gather in the Plaza, which is located along Kirby Puckett Place inside the metrodome, prior to the initial launch. Speaking of pitching, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome features an electrically powered pitcher’s mound, which has the ability to be raised or lowered via remote control and weighs 23,000 pounds.
Like other sports venues, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome has seen some memorable moments. Among one of the best is the fact that this facility is the only stadium to have hosted two World Series, the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, the NFL Super Bowl, and the NCAA Final Four of the Tournament. NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball. Unsurprisingly, there is a great deal of history locked within the walls of this facility. From the Minnesota Twins to the NFL Vikings, rodeo, motor sports and figure skating, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome has hosted it all. For those who have a chance to see it, a distant view of the metrodome at night will reveal a sea of city lights with a large dome shining in the heart of the city. A rich historic site full of charm, modern conveniences, and seats packed with Minnesota Twins fans are just a few of the attractions found here.
Collectors wishing to request an autograph from any of the players on the Minnesota Twins roster should send their letter and a SASE (stamped, self-addressed envelope) to:
Player’s name
c/o Minnesota Twins
Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
34 Kirby Puckett Place
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Fans requesting an autograph must limit their request to two items per letter. Popular items that are signed include photos, indexes or trading cards, baseballs, etc. Patience is key when requesting autographs by mail, but the best time to contact an athlete is often in the off-season.