Fifty years ago, on January 11, 1975, Hartford welcomed professional hockey when the Whalers took the ice for the first time. To celebrate this milestone, Connecticut will host a series of events on January 11, 2025, to honor 50 years of Hartford hockey and the remarkable legacy of the Whalers.
“Connecticut is proud of its hockey history, and even prouder of the fans who’ve kept that legacy alive,” Governor Ned Lamont said. “Fifty years later, this celebration isn’t just looking back, but also about honoring how hockey continues to connect and energize our communities. The Whalers weren’t just a hockey team – they were, and remain, a symbol of pride, unity, and identity for Connecticut.”
“Hockey in Hartford was always about more than just the game,” Howard Baldwin, founder of the Hartford Whalers, said. “It was about the fans, the city, and the pride of being part of something unique. I’m thrilled to see this celebration of 50 years, and I’m honored to share in the memories and excitement.”
