1966 Expansion Era

Lore & Background

The inaugural season of 1966 was marked by the struggles typical of an expansion squad, yet it laid the foundation for a distinct identity. Playing in the humid conditions of the Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, the team wore their iconic black, red, and white colors, immediately establishing a visual brand that would endure. While the on-field results were modest in the beginning, the community's embrace was immediate and passionate, transforming the Falcons into a symbol of civic pride for the growing metropolis.

In Their Own Story

The humid Georgia air hung heavy over Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium as the first roar of the crowd echoed through the open-air bowl. It was September 1966, and the black jerseys with the red falcon logo were not just uniforms; they were a promise kept to a city that had waited too long. As the kickoff approached, Rankin Smith watched from the sideline, knowing this moment transcended sport—it was the arrival of Atlanta on the national stage.

Reader's Guide

The story begins in 1965 when Rankin Smith and his consortium successfully bid for an NFL expansion franchise, officially bringing professional football to Atlanta. The team debuted in 1966 under head coach Lewie Hardwick, playing their home games at the newly constructed Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium. Throughout the late 1960s, the Falcons struggled with typical expansion growing pains but slowly built a fanbase that would become legendary for its loyalty. The team's identity was solidified by the 'Falcons' name and their distinctive color scheme, which resonated deeply with the local culture. By the early 1970s, the franchise had stabilized enough to compete seriously, eventually reaching the Super Bowl in the 1980 season. However, the roots of this journey were planted firmly during those initial expansion years, where the vision of bringing the NFL to the South became a reality.

Did You Know?

• The name 'Falcons' was chosen from over 4,000 entries submitted by the public in a naming contest.
• Rankin Smith served as the team's first commissioner and was instrumental in securing the franchise for Atlanta.
• The Falcons played their inaugural home game at the Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium on September 25, 1966.