369 Molineux Stadium

Molineux Stadium, located in Wolverhampton, has been the home of Wolverhampton Wanderers since 1889. The stadium’s name originates from Benjamin Molineux, a local merchant who, in 1744, purchased the land where the stadium now stands. Initially, the area was developed into a pleasure park featuring various amenities, including an area for football. In 1889, the Northampton Brewery Company acquired the grounds and rented them to Wolverhampton Wanderers, marking the beginning of the club’s long-standing association with Molineux.

Over the years, Molineux has undergone several transformations. In the early 20th century, significant developments included the construction of new stands and the installation of floodlights in 1953, making it one of the first British grounds to host floodlit matches. The stadium reached its peak capacity in 1939, hosting over 61,000 spectators for a match against Liverpool. Financial challenges in the 1980s led to parts of the stadium being closed due to safety concerns. However, a major redevelopment in the early 1990s revitalized Molineux into a modern all-seater stadium. Further renovations have continued into the 21st century, ensuring that Molineux remains a central and historic venue in English football.