Jack Brickhouse

Jack Brickhouse

Chicago, Illinois

Near by stories

Transcript

Welcome to the Jack Brickhouse statue, a tribute to one of Chicago's most beloved sports broadcasters. Located in the heart of the city, this bronze likeness stands as a testament to a man who voiced over 5,000 baseball, basketball, and football games. Brickhouse is renowned for his catchphrase "Hey-Hey!" celebrated each time the home team hit a home run. This iconic figure not only captured the hearts of sports fans but also shaped the way sports are broadcasted in America.

Jack Brickhouse's career spanned over four decades, during which he became synonymous with Chicago sports. He was the voice of both the Cubs and the White Sox, a rare feat in major league broadcasting. Beyond baseball, Brickhouse also called games for the Chicago Bears and was on air for historic events such as Don Larsen's perfect game in the 1956 World Series. His influence was so profound that he received the Ford C. Frick Award from the Baseball Hall of Fame.

The statue of Jack Brickhouse was unveiled on September 1, 2000, commemorating a legendary voice that resonated through radios and televisions across America. Why did Chicago decide to honor him with a statue? Simply put, Brickhouse wasn't just a broadcaster; he was a cultural ambassador for sports. His enthusiastic commentary helped elevate baseball’s popularity during television’s golden age and brought countless new fans to the games.

For those looking to capture a piece of Chicago's rich sporting history, visiting this statue is a must. Located near Michigan Avenue on Pioneer Court, it offers not only a photo opportunity but also an immersive glimpse into Chicago’s deep-rooted love for sports. Local tip: visit during early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and get perfect lighting for photos.

Did you know Jack Brickhouse was behind the microphone for over 40 no-hitters? His ability to capture these rare moments with his vibrant commentary left listeners hanging on his every word. Moreover, his signature "Hey-Hey" is inscribed on his microphone depicted in the statue—a subtle yet powerful reminder of his impact on sports broadcasting.

After paying homage to Jack Brickhouse, explore nearby attractions like The Magnificent Mile for world-class shopping or take a scenic walk along the Chicago Riverwalk just minutes away from the statue. Both offer unique experiences that complement your visit to this iconic memorial.