The Chicago Blackhawks history is a story of tradition, rivalries, and triumphs in the NHL. Founded in 1926, the team quickly became a powerhouse, thrilling fans with unforgettable moments. Today, hockey Chicago Blackhawks reflects both past glories and ongoing excitement, making it one of the league’s most celebrated and influential franchises.
Established
1926
City
Chicago
League History
1926 – Present / National Hockey League
Team History
1926 – Present / Chicago Blackhawks
Nickname
Blackhawks – The Chicago Blackhawks are among the most iconic National Hockey League (NHL) teams. They have a storied history, and their nickname has an interesting origin story. The name "Blackhawks" originated from Chief Black Hawk, a leader of the Sauk Native American tribe who fought against US forces during the War of 1812.
In 1926, Major Frederic McLaughlin purchased an NHL franchise named after his former military unit: The 86th Infantry Division, also known as "The Blackhawk Division." This division was named after Chief Black Hawk due to its location near Sauk Village in Illinois, where he lived and fought alongside other members of his tribe.
Chicago Blackhawks Origin
This connection to Native Americans is further strengthened by two symbols adorning each side of their logo - a profile view headdress on one side and feathers on another - representing traditional elements found within many indigenous cultures throughout North America. Additionally, when you look at any member's jersey or helmet, you will see two crossed tomahawks above the team's crest; these symbolize strength and courage for all warriors who fight for justice with honor like Chief Black Hawk did centuries ago!
It is clear why so many sports fans flock towards supporting this legendary hockey organization; they have plenty to be proud of on-ice accomplishments, but there’s also something special about knowing your favorite team honors someone whose bravery still resonates today through its name “Blackhawks.”
Championship
Stanley Cup 6
2015, 2013, 2010, 1961, 1938, 1934
Arena
1995 – Present / United Center
1926 – 1994 / Chicago Coliseum
Owner
2007 – Present / William R. “Rocky” Wirtz
1966 – 2007 / Bill Wirtz
1952 – 1966 / James D. Norris and Arthur Wirtz
1946 – 1952 / James E. Norris and Bill Tobin
1944 – 1946 / Estate of Frederic McLaughlin
1926 – 1944 / Frederic McLaughlin
- 1926
- 1938
- 1961
- 1986
- 2010
- 2013
- 2015
-
Chicago Black Hawks Team Formation
On May 1, 1926, the NHL awarded an expansion franchise for Chicago to a syndicate headed by former football star Huntington Hardwick of Boston. At the same meeting, Hardwick arranged the purchase of the players of the Portland Rosebuds of the Western Hockey League for $100,000 from WHL President Frank Patrick in a deal brokered by Boston Bruins’ owner Charles ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 1938
The 1938 Stanley Cup Finals was a best-of-five series between the Chicago Black Hawks and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Chicago won the series 3–1 to win their second Stanley Cup. Stanley Cup – 1934 The 1934 Stanley Cup Final NHL championship series was contested by the Chicago Black Hawks and the Detroit Red Wings. It was the Red Wings’ first ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 1961
The 1961 Stanley Cup Final was contested by the Detroit Red Wings and the Chicago Blackhawks. Chicago was making its first appearance since 1944 in the Final, and Detroit, their first appearance since 1956. The Blackhawks would win the best-of-seven series four games to two to win their third Stanley Cup, they are first since 1938. However, this proved to ... -
Official “Blackhawks”
Also, prior to the 1986 – 1987 season, while going through the team’s records, someone discovered the team’s original NHL contract and found that the name “Blackhawks” was printed as a compound word as opposed to two separate words “Black Hawks” which was the way most sources had been printing it for 60 years and as the team had always ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 2010
The 2010 Stanley Cup Final was the best-of-seven NHL championship series of the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs contested between the Western Conference champion Chicago Blackhawks and the Eastern Conference champion Philadelphia Flyers. It was Chicago’s eleventh appearance in the Final and their first since 1992, a loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. It was Philadelphia’s eighth appearance in the Final and ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 2013
The 2013 Stanley Cup Finals was the championship series of the National Hockey League (NHL) 2012–13 season, and the conclusion of the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs. This was the 120th year of the Stanley Cup’s presentation. The Western Conference playoff champion Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Eastern Conference playoff champion Boston Bruins in six games to win their fifth Stanley Cup ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 2015
The 2015 Stanley Cup Final, commonly known as the 2015 Stanley Cup Finals, was the championship series of the National Hockey League (NHL) 2014–15 season, and the culmination of the 2015 Stanley Cup playoffs. This was the 122nd year of the Stanley Cup’s presentation. The Western Conference champion Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Eastern Conference champion Tampa Bay Lightning four games ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Chicago Blackhawks History
The Chicago Blackhawks history reflects one of the most successful legacies in NHL. Founded in 1926 as an expansion franchise, the team quickly became a dominant force and a symbol of tradition. Over the decades, hockey Chicago Blackhawks games have thrilled fans with unforgettable performances, fierce rivalries, and record-breaking moments that shaped the NHL’s identity.
The Chicago Blackhawks history includes six Stanley Cup championships, making them one of the league’s most decorated teams. Legendary players like Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita, and Denis Savard helped establish the franchise’s winning culture. Their intense rivalry with the St. Louis Blues has been a highlight of hockey Chicago Blackhawks matchups, fueling passionate fan support and elevating the team’s competitive spirit.
During the 1980s, the Blackhawks enjoyed a resurgence under head coach Bob Pulford. Stars such as Steve Larmer, Jeremy Roenick, and Hall of Famer Chris Chelios turned the roster into one of the most feared in the NHL. This era of hockey Chicago Blackhawks dominance built on their rich tradition and helped cement their status as an elite franchise.
A new golden chapter in Chicago Blackhawks history began in 2010, when captain Jonathan Toews led the team to its first Stanley Cup in decades and earned the Conn Smythe Trophy. Patrick Kane’s memorable overtime goal in Game 6 against the Philadelphia Flyers sealed the victory, ushering in an era of consistent playoff appearances and continued excellence in hockey Chicago Blackhawks culture.
Blackhawks Achievements
The achievements did not stop there. The Blackhawks added two more Stanley Cups in 2013 and 2015, establishing one of the most successful dynasties in modern NHL history. Their ability to rebuild while maintaining competitive rosters exemplifies the enduring strength of Chicago Blackhawks history and its impact on fans worldwide.
Beyond championships, the hockey Chicago Blackhawks franchise has become a model for developing homegrown talent, promoting community outreach, and inspiring future generations of players. With a legacy defined by grit, tradition, and innovation, the Blackhawks remain one of the most iconic teams in NHL history, keeping the spirit of Chicago hockey alive for decades to come.
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The Chicago Blackhawks: From Original Six Beginnings to Stanley Cup Glory!
Enjoy incredible story of the Chicago Blackhawks: from Original Six beginnings to Stanley Cup glory! We explore the rich legacy of the Blackhawks, highlighting their journey from the early days of the NHL as one of the Original Six teams to their remarkable Stanley Cup victories...
Retired Number
1 / Glenn Hall
3 / Keith Magnuson
3 / Pierre Pilote
9 / Bobby Hull
18 / Denis Savard
21 / Stan Mikita
35 / Tony Esposito
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history
