Then and now: A look back at San Francisco 49ers' 80-year history as fans celebrate team's legacy
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- As the San Francisco 49ers mark their 80th season, fans are reflecting on the franchise's long history, from its founding in 1946 to its place among the NFL's most storied organizations.
Only nine current NFL teams predate the 49ers. Over eight decades, the franchise has built a legacy that includes multiple Super Bowl championships, Hall of Fame coaches and players, and generations of loyal fans.
Asked to describe 80 years of 49ers football, fans offered a range of answers: "Fantastic. Magical torture." "Successful." "Super Bowl." "Football legacy from the inception of the organization to current day."
Founded in 1946 by Tony Morabito, the 49ers began as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference.
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The team joined the NFL in 1950 and went on to establish a tradition centered on winning and fan support.
"I've seen it all. This is my 56th year with season tickets, so I've seen everything come and go - coaches, players, fans. But it's all been good. It's been one fun trip the whole time," said Tommie Silas, a 49ers fan from Hayward. Much has changed since the franchise's early years, including the cost of everyday life and attending games.
The script notes that the federal minimum wage was 40 cents in 1946, a gallon of milk cost 67 cents, and tickets for games at Kezar Stadium were $2.
Today, attending a game comes at a significantly higher cost.
"I think my average ticket today was worth $230 to $250.
A little bit of an increase over time," one fan said.
The team's home stadium has changed over the decades as well.
The 49ers played at Kezar Stadium before moving to Candlestick Park in San Francisco in 1971.
The franchise relocated to Levi's Stadium in the South Bay in 2014.
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For many fans, each venue is tied to unforgettable moments.
"I was at the catch game, it was pandemonium. We went on the field after the game," one fan said.
"I seen Terrell Owens catch two and Vernon Davis catch three," said another fan.
"There's so many good plays and memories," a fan shared.
Fans said the memories, prices and locations may change, but their support for the team remains constant.
"I got to see Super Bowls, I got to see NFC Championship. So some good games ,some bad seasons. But you know you take the good with the bad," said Corinne Sartorio, a 49ers fan from Fairfax.
Another fan summed up that loyalty in two words: "Go Niners."
As the franchise celebrates its 80th season, fans said they hope the anniversary year ends with another Super Bowl championship added to the team's history.
The pursuit of a sixth title continues with Monday Night Football against Washington Commanders, which on Monday night, the niners won 23-16.
