“Bush Stadium”, named after the legendary baseball player Owen Joseph Bush is an abandoned stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. The Bush Stadium which was constructed in 1931 served as home field for various Indianapolis (baseball) teams before it was deserted and left to rot.

History of the Bush Stadium

Perry’s Field as it was originally known was constructed in 1931 by Osborn Engineering financed by Perry Norm (Owner of Indianapolis Indians). Norm Perry, being a fan of baseball and a former junior player, officiated the opening of the stadium on the 5th of September in 1931 when his team played their first-ever league game. Over the years, the stadium changed hands though serving the same purpose. Several emerging local teams also called Bush Stadium home. As it changed owners and teams, it changed names as well. At one point it was called Victory Stadium.

Closure of a Paradise The city of Indianapolis purchased the stadium in 1967 but leased it back to the Indians. Several football teams played in the stadium, blinding many locals to how dilapidated the stadium had become. After a decade of deliberation, the decision to build a new home stadium was made, and work on the New Victory Stadium began. The stadium opened in 1996, displacing the old Bush Stadium. After a year of abandonment, Indianapolis Motor Speedway leased the Stadium and turned it into a dirt track (16th Street Speedway). This too did not work out and was shut down two years later. The stadium was again abandoned for a second time.

Was the stadium ever restored?

In 2011, decisions were made to turn the stadium into an apartment complex. Demolition and renovation began the same year almost immediately after appraisal. Seats from the stadium and other valuables were taken out and re-used in various departments in Indianapolis. Some were restored and taken to various parks, subway stations, and bus stops while others are currently used at the entrances of the now Lofts and Flats complex. Bush Stadium was restored to a fully furnished apartment complex that is open for rentals. The actual field is still intact and well maintained as it was in the 1900s.

Do the apartment managers allow visitations?

Being an active apartment complex currently, visitation at the restored landmark is not allowed unless you are an authorized resident or visitor to the residents. During the restoration process, all the hazardous structures were removed and replaced with user-friendly structures. Apartments at the old restored Lofts and Flats apartment range from studios, one bedroomed, two bedrooms, and a three-bedroom en suite. Shared amenities include a swimming pool, children playing area, and the vast playing field that is good for party and wedding hosting.