75th Anniversary Sculpture - "Badge of Honor"

The Chicago Blackhawks held a special press conference Thursday, October 12, 2000, prior to the home opener to unveil a sculpture that was done to commemorate their 75th Anniversary season as a member club in the National Hockey League. The sculpture, crafted by Erik Blome, depicts different eras in Blackhawk history. Appropriately, the sculpture is located on Madison Street across from the United Center (Gates 2 & 3) where the Chicago Stadium once stood.

The sculpture shows six life-size players wearing different Blackhawk jerseys from six different eras in team history. The figures each stand upon a base that will make them seem as if they are blasting through a granite wall. On the granite wall behind the figures are the names of every player who has donned a Blackhawks jersey from 1926 (Over 600 names).

The unveiling ceremony featured Pat Foley acting as the Master of Ceremonies. Pat introduced sculptor Erik Blome and Blackhawks President William W. Wirtz. Four Blackhawk legends also spoke: 'Mr. Goalie' Glenn Hall; Stan Mikita; Denis Savard; and Tony Esposito.

Fans are encouraged to stop by this beautiful new Chicago landmark and take pictures as they recall all the great names and moments of Blackhawks history.

The following words are engraved on a plaque located near the sculpture:

"Badge of Honor"
This commemorative sculpture symbolizes the 75th anniversary of the Chicago Blackhawk Hockey Team. The bronze players depict the history and tradition of Blackhawk hockey and the men who donned the sacred Indian Head sweater. Each player represents the pride, the passion, and the emotion of the different eras throughout the storied past of this Original Six team. The names engraved on the monument are the players who have competed wearing the Indian Head crest as their Badge of Honor.