I could not find a special thread dedicated to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Many threads about current nominees etc., but not about the actual place. I thought it would be nice to have one, where people could share their experiences visiting this amazing museum. If you have been there, you've seen all of it, of course. But if you have not, this could prompt you to go sometime.
It is a little embarrassing for a hockey fan, but in my many visits to Toronto, I have never found the time to visit the HHOF. Well, not anymore! It has just re-opened and we just happened to be there right at that time. What a place!
First thing I noticed was the giant posters of the 2020 inductees with this guy front and centre:
Next to Iggy was Kevin Lowe, but I've cropped him out for aesthetics.
This is Calgary Flames' Cup Ring donated by Doc Seaman's estate:
Team Cup rings have evolved over time: from a small wedding band type to a massively garish 1"x1" diamond-encrusted monstrosities made by LA, Washington and St.Lois recently. Calgary Flames ring size is twice smaller in comparison.
The Cup is displayed upstairs in the Great Hall with other major NHL team and individual trophies. They charge $10 for a photo with the Cup, but will let you take one yourself too. I've learned something new there: apparently, there are two Stanley Cups: one for display at the Hall and one for presenting on ice and traveling with the winners. They are both considered "original Cup" (as in not a replica of the original), although the one in the Hall has 10% more silver in it, while the traveling Cup has more wear and tear to it. Apparently, during the Washington celebrations, Ovechkin started using the Cup as a keg stand, which has become somewhat popular since and the traveling Cup got scratched and dented because of it. Plus, Maroon has dropped the Cup on the street and damaged it pretty bad recently. NHL has asked the players to treat the Cup more respectfully going forward. The Cup is beautiful but, honestly, it looks a lot bigger on TV than it is. (yeah, I can hear the jokes...
)
This was the true original Stanley Cup bought by Lord Stanley in UK and brought to Canada to be awarded as the first Dominion Hockey Challenge Cup.
This is Iggy's induction plaque. The bottom row facing the wall, unfortunately, but you can't choose your placement, I guess.
Giordano's photo was still up for the Calgary Flames team display. Sad.
Some of the things that have impressed me the most:
- Visual evolution of the hockey stick on display.
- Goalie masks of the past - my God, those little plastic face-grills they were putting on and facing the pucks; it is truly difficult to comprehend!
- Individual record lists; most/least for players... hard to list them all; but just incredible.
There are a few interactive games: you can shoot the puck onto a goalie or you can be a goalie for 10 shots coming at you from the slots in the wall fit into a giant video screen of players on a breakaway. (I was able to save 8 out of 10 but missed the first two making my wife laugh hysterically while sending the video to our kids).
Anyway, just felt like sharing this experience. If you can, plan to visit and go. It is not just for kids. The history and aura of this place is truly majestic for anyone who loves hockey. Sorry for the crappy photos. Feel free to add on pics of your visits.
HHOF - General Thread
