How the New England Patriots Got Their Name: Explained

On the Fourth of July, one NFL club stands out above the rest: the New England Patriots. But was the franchise truly called an homage to America?

How did the term come about? What other names did the club consider before settling on its present one in 1959?

Here’s what you should know:

What are the Patriots named after?

The first American patriots, as you might expect. The franchise was created in Boston in 1959. Reflecting Boston’s role as a cradle of the American Revolution, the name “Patriots” was the most popular choice for the team.

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How was the New England Patriots name truly chosen?

Billy Sullivan Jr., a Boston businessman, was given the team as an American Football League (AFL) additional franchise in 1959 and immediately invited outside proposals for the club’s moniker, according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Ultimately, a panel of Boston sportswriters limited the field and chose “Patriots.” The club started playing under that moniker in 1960, formally integrated with the NFL in 1970, and moved to Foxborough, Massachusetts the following year, swapping the “Boston Patriots” ID for their present one.

What other names have been considered?

Before the Patriots became the Patriots, the selection committee considered many different entries, some of which paid homage to Boston’s significant significance in American history.

According to The Sports Chief, the possibilities were Beantowners, Braves, Colonials, Minutemen, and Bulls. The Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball lived in Boston twice (1912-1935, 1941-1952) before the NFL Patriots emerged, therefore they would have previously utilized the Boston Braves nickname.

From 1974 to 1976, the Minutemen served as the moniker of a now-defunct North American Soccer League team in Boston.

Where is New England Patriots Stadium Located?

The New England Patriots’ stadium, formally known as Gillette Stadium, is in Foxborough, Massachusetts. This lovely village is about 22 miles southwest of downtown Boston and 18 miles northeast of Providence, Rhode Island.

Foxborough, located in New England’s heart, combines small-town charm with convenient access to large urban centers. The town’s rich history creates a magnificent backdrop for the modern stadium.

The location is perfect for supporters from both Massachusetts and Rhode Island, making it a key gathering site for Patriots supporters.

Getting There

Gillette Stadium’s location is easily reached via several modes of transportation. This historic sporting facility is easily accessible by car, train, or public transit.

The stadium is easily accessible via major routes like Interstate 95 and US Route 1. Ample parking facilities accommodate the vast crowd on game days, ensuring a pleasant experience.

For those who prefer public transportation, the MBTA offers a train service straight to the stadium on event days, allowing fans to attend games without worrying about parking.

Stadium Highlights

Gillette Stadium, which opened in 2002, is more than a sports facility; it also serves as an entertainment destination. It holds concerts, soccer games, and other significant events.

The stadium’s capacity of 65,878 seats offers a lively atmosphere every game day. The contemporary facilities, which include premium seats, suites, and advanced technology, provide an unmatched fan experience.

The facility also features a fantastic LED lighting system and high-definition video boards, improving the viewing experience.

Aside from sports, Gillette Stadium is a popular location for large concerts, hosting famous musicians worldwide.

Around the Stadium

The region around Gillette Stadium has many attractions. Patriot Place, an open-air shopping and entertainment complex, is next to the stadium.

It has stores, restaurants, and even a museum commemorating the Patriots’ history.

The Hall at Patriot Place allows visitors to eat, purchase products, and learn about the team’s rich history. This facility extends game day into an all-day affair, offering entertainment and culinary options to fans of all ages.

Everyone may find something to enjoy, from casual meals to premium establishments.