Why are bleachers called bleachers?

Whether you were the one intensely cheering for your favorite team or who missed the play while waiting in line at the concession stand, chances are that you’ve spent some time sitting in the bleachers. It’s a classic memory for most of us! One that is often tied to baseball games, fireworks displays, and grade school memories.

So why are bleachers called bleachers? It’s really pretty simple. Traditionally, bleachers have been the primary affordable seating section, composed of wooden planks that are, here’s the kicker, bleached by the scorching sun!

At one time in history, the term “bleachers” was not only used in reference to the seating itself, but also to the occupants of the seating. As you can tell, bleachers have played a significant role in history by providing a place for communities to come together as spectators and rally together in support of their favorite teams, musical act, or a myriad of other displays.

At NRS, we specialize in aluminum bleachers. Engineered for durability and quality, NRS bleachers come in a variety of options, each of which is prepared to facilitate memories being made for years to come!

So, by now you’re probably thinking, “wait, what is the difference between bleachers and grandstands?”

Bleachers vs. Grandstands

Bleachers are a more structurally simplistic seating option than grandstands. Although they have progressed with time to commonly be fashioned out of various metals, rather than wood, bleachers are still comprised of tiered rows of horizontal planks. There are usually a set of stairs on either side for access, and occasionally a walkway at the bottom for easy access.

Grandstands, on the other hand, are larger and more complex structures. Grandstands come in a wide variety of options. They can feature covered seating areas, alternative seating options, and can include press boxes and an array of other unique accessories.

Notable Bleachers of History

Most major league sports organizations have more than a few quirky traditions or superstitions developed by die-hard fans. The New York Yankees have a group of fans known as the “bleacher creatures.”

For the Chicago Cubs, the bleachers housed in Wrigley Stadium have created a legacy of their own.

The inhabitants of the Wrigley Field bleachers are infamously known as “bleacher bums.” The hallowed seats are home to lifelong devotees, and enthusiastic locals, ready to watch their beloved Cubbies knock one out of the park.

Fun fact: there was a play written about the Wrigley bleachers called “Bleacher Bums” in 1977.

Different Types of Bleachers

NRS offers a wide range of options to help you create the ideal bleachers to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for portable bleachers, press boxes, or high-capacity bleachers, or shade systems, we are here to help!

NRS also offers ADA accessible options for schools and organizations looking to expand their access routes and create a more inclusive environment!

Our passion is educating our clients on the options available to them and creating bleachers that suit their needs and put smiles on people’s faces. For more information, click here to contact us! We are looking forward to hearing from you.