Who We Are:

 

Established in the spring of 1997 by Don Crafts, before the founding of the Chicago Fire Soccer Club. Barn Burners were the first supporters group to organize, and were the original occupants of Section 8 at Soldier Field in the Fire’s inaugural season. With membership at well over 300, BB 1871 have been the dominant fan group in coordinating supporter activities. Barn Burners remain known for establishing the tailgate parties as the standard pre-match activity for Fire fans and for organizing the first away bus trips. One could say, Fire supporter culture began in 1997 with the establishment of Barn Burners 1871 and the selection of the seating area at Soldier Field, known as Section 8. Chosen by BB1871 and then GM Peter Wilt as much for the symbolism of the name as the location on the corner of the field, Section 8 was set as the Barn Burners’ home sector and it established a designated standing area to encourage the style of fandom seen both in other countries' soccer traditions or in American college athletics. Beginning in the 1999 season, the Fire Ultras 98 moved to Section 8 from their location on the opposite side of the stadium. The primarily American influence of the Barn Burners became fused with the European ultras style of the Polish group. The resultant cocktail was a success, and both groups agreed to permanent cohabitation in the section. This set the precedent for cooperative organization among Fire fans still held today. Since then other SGs have come and gone within Section 8 but Barn Burners 1871 remain, as our original mottos state SUPPORTERS FOR LIFE and YOU’LL NEVER DRINK ALONE. 

 

Want to attend a Chicago Fire FC match with Barn Burners? Hit us up on Facebook, Twitter/X, or email and we’ll get you a ticket.