NFL Team History - The Oakland Raiders

On January 30, 1960, the city of Oakland, California was granted an American Football League franchise. The Oakland franchise became the second team from the west coast to join the AFL. The Los Angeles Chargers, now San Diego, was the other pacific coast-based team.

An affiliation was formed by a group of businessmen, which included Harvey Binns, Don Blessing, Charles Harney, Ed McGah, Robert Osborne, Wayne Valley, and Chet Soda. Originally, the Oakland franchise was named the Senors; however, the name was changed to 'Raiders' weeks later.

The Raiders first home field was Kezar Stadium in San Francisco, California after their endeavors to establish Memorial Stadium in Berkely as their home stadium were rejected. On September 11, 1960, the Raiders played their first home game against the Houston Oilers. Unfortunately for the Oakland fans, their home team suffered a 37-22 defeat. The Raiders introductory season resulted in a mediocre 6-8 record. The final three home games of the season were played in Candlestick Park.

Wayne Valley and Ed McGah purchased majority ownership from the other members of the affiliation in 1961. In 1962, the Raiders finally moved to their first home in Oakland and played on Frank Youell Field during the construction of Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, their eventual home.

Following the 1962 season, Wayne Valley employed Al Davis for the head coach position. Not only was Davis the coach but he would assume the general manager duties as well. Davis had previously served as the assistant coach for the west coast counterparts San Diego Chargers. The Raiders team colors changed to silver and black.

The following season, the Raiders enjoyed their best season up to date as they posted a 10-4 record.

In 1966, Davis would leave the Raiders organization and become the AFL Commissioner. Following the AFL-NFL merger, the piqued Davis returned to the Raiders as a part-owner. He acquired 10 percent of the franchise on July 25, 1966.