Despite several name changes – from Candlestick Park, chosen by a public ballot of more than 15,000 entries
in 1959 when it was built for $24.6 million, to 3Com Park in 1995, to Monster Park in 2005, and back to
Candlestick in 2008 – the stadium has long been affectionately dubbed The Stick. Another constant is the
wind that swirls throughout the storied stadium. It was expanded in 1969 and became the home of 49ers in 1971
after they moved from Kezar Stadium. More than a decade later Candlestick was the site of The Catch – the
winning touchdown reception from Joe Montana to Dwight Clark in the 1982 NFC Championship against the Cowboys,
which many consider one of the most memorable plays in NFL history and served to kick-start the Niners'
dynasty years. In 2007 Candlestick's field was named after Bill Walsh as a tribute to the late, legendary 49ers coach.
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