The History of Rupp Arena

I found an article online telling me a little about Rupp Arena and the history behind it. The location of the article is www.rupparena.com and was written by an employee who was not named.

The idea of having a civic center in Lexington was created in the 1920’s, but it wouldn't be put into effect until 1971 when the Lexington-Fayette County Recreational, Tourist, and Convention Commission was formed. The economic impact of Rupp arena was very large. It was predicted to produce $9.2 million in payrolls, creating jobs for many Lexington natives. The opening of the convention center was held in 1976. The convention center was named Rupp Arena after a former UK basketball coach, Adolph Rupp. Rupp arena provides seating for more than 23,000 guests. The arena is most known for UK basketball and the success they’ve had in their time there, winning 4 national titles. The first game the Wildcats played in Rupp was on November 27, 1976 against the Wisconsin Badgers, a game they later won 72-64. Rupp arena held the 1985 mens basketball final four for the first time in its history, as well as the men’s Southeastern Conference Tournament and the women's final four in 1986. The PNC/KHSAA high school boys basketball tournament is held at Rupp arena every year and draws close to 100,000 fans during the 4 day tournament. Although Rupp Arena is mostly known for the great basketball environment, it also has other activities that take place. Rupp has hosted many different events that include circuses, hockey games, concerts, and other family oriented activities.

I don’t think the people that had the idea of creating Rupp in 1971 would’ve thought it would be as successful as it is today. The article says that they had the idea of creating a convention center in the 1920’s but they didn't create it till almost 50 years later. Why is that? I’m not sure how I would go about finding this information out. I could do some research on the financial situation of Lexington in the 1920’s and beyond to see if that can help. Maybe the Great depression put a hold on this great idea.


Link to Article