Historical Hockey Memorabilia Auction Fall 2018
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/6/2018
Serving as the primary developmental league of the NHL, the American Hockey League was formed in 1936 as the I-AHL when the Canadian-American Hockey League and International Hockey League - both then short on member-clubs - decided to play an interlocking schedule, with the league re-christened the AHL after the 1939-40 season. Originating from the important league’s earliest days, we have an AHL sweater that originates from the family of 1930s referee William “Bill” O’Hara, with this rare specimen thought to have seen officiating duties during the early-1940s. The off-white wool sweater with large V-neck has a label from Lowe & Campbell Sporting Goods over the inside hem, with “A.H.L.” placed across the chest in individual maroon felt letter with white trim. Also included is a felt “NHL” shield patch, along with a copy of the March 4th 1931 edition of The Hockeyist which mentions O’Hara refereeing in the AHA.
We should note that while we attribute the sweater as being an actual referee’s example from the league, there is very little data that remains to confirm, with our assumption based on both the sweaters construction and style, along with the fact that it originates from referee William O’Hara’s collection. A few small holes are visible on the vintage garment including beneath each shoulder and along the reverse neckline, with a few minor stains present as well. There is also a bit of fraying of the “AHL” letters, with some sweat staining within each armpit section guaranteeing thorough use. The NHL shield patch in solid black is approx. 4” x 5”, with the outline of threading holes at a few spots along the perimeter. “NHL” in the correct orange felt has been sewn-on, with this interconnected design differing from the familiar NHL logo, with the possibility existing of this being an early NHL crest off of a referee or linesman’s sweater. So little remains regarding information on the earliest days of either league, that our assumptions on both pieces could not be confirmed.
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