Built on land sold to the City in 1923 by the widow of former Madison Mayor Breese J. Stevens. Construction began in 1926 and was completed in 1934 as part of the Civil Works Administration, a New Deal jobs program.

The stadium was the city's premier athletic facility until the 1960s . As the only athletic field with lighting, it hosted the semi-pro "Madison Blues" baseball team, Badger baseball, all five high school football teams, midget car racing, circuses, boxing, and wrestling, among other events.

Early in 1939 a report was made describing the earnings of each type of event held at the athletic field.

In 1940 it was official, all requests to schedule auto racing were tabled. Even the Zor Shrine's efforts to benefit Handicapped children wouldn't sway the council. The Madison Blues Baseball League was it's primary user in 1940, today it is mainly used for Soccer events.

All things considered, it's a wonder how the races were allowed to continue throughout the 1938 season. After all, this facility was nine blocks off the Capital Square, in a residential area and specifically used as an athletic field. Today's technology, premier racing facilities, with state of the art track preparation has put an end to the issues that plagued Breese Stevens Field. Now, the positive impact midget racing brings to a community is the main consideration.

link: Photos of Breese Stevens Field in 2005

Men and machines
of the late 30's

Bob Mulhke, photo taken at the Kenosha Speedway, 1937

Thank You e-bay seller Ramsby74 for making these photos available.

Ramsby74 on e-bay