After an exhibition game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Montreal Wanderers four nights earlier, the first regular-season hockey game was held at Toronto’s new Arena Gardens on Mutual Street on Christmas night, December 25, 1912. (That’s coming up on a somewhat stylistically interesting – but not really significant – 111 years ago.)
In that season opener of the National Hockey Association (forerunner of the National Hockey League), the Canadiens beat the brand new Toronto Hockey Club (aka the Torontos, the Blueshirts, or the Blue Shirts), 9-5.
No matter what you celebrate at this time of year, I hope you have/had a happy one. And all the best to everybody for a happy and healthy — and peaceful — new year in 2024.
Thanks Eric. Continued success, good luck, and good health in 2024. Happy writing!!!
All the best to you for a happy and healthy New Year!!!
Eric, you always come up with historical gems. All the best in the holiday season to you.
May the new year be one of happiness and no more diseases. And may Israel finally be free of terror attacks and may world antisemitism and hate of all who are different finally cease.
A vain hope, but perhaps in 2024 we may see the beginning of a new world.
You never fail to please and enlighten.
Happy holidays Eric!
Eric:
Best wishes for a Happy New Year! And keep them coming.
Season’s Greetings, EZ!
Another fun read — thanks!
Christmas night hockey on Mutual Street! Sounds pretty darn festive to me!