The New York Americans were one of the NHL’s first U.S.-based teams, debuting in 1925. Known for their patriotic uniforms and fierce rivalries, the New York Americans hockey franchise played an important role in the league’s early growth. Their story includes passionate fans, memorable playoff runs, and influential players who helped establish hockey’s roots in New York.
Established
1919
City
Quebec – Hamilton – New York – Brooklyn
League History
1919 – 1942 / National Hockey League
Team History
1941 – 1942 / Brooklyn Americans
1925 – 1941 / New York Americans
1920 – 1925 / Hamilton Tigers
1919 – 1920 / Quebec Bulldogs
Nickname
Americans – The New York Americans, founded in 1925, were one of the original six teams to make up the National Hockey League (NHL). The team was initially known as the Brooklyn Americans and had a unique nickname that has its roots in American history.
It is believed that when founding owner William Dwyer decided to name his new hockey team after his hometown of Brooklyn, he wanted something more than "Brooklyn." He chose "Americans" because it represented a sense of patriotism and pride for his country. It also served as an homage to all those who have fought for America's freedom over the years.
New York Americans Origin
In addition, by using this name, Dwyer hoped to attract fans from outside Brooklyn interested in supporting an American-based professional sports franchise. This strategy worked well initially, with many people flocking to Madison Square Garden on game days wearing red, white, and blue clothing or waving small flags during games.
Despite their popularity amongst local fans, however, financial difficulties forced them out of New York City just eight seasons later; they relocated across state lines into Pennsylvania, where they became known as the Philadelphia Quakers until folding altogether shortly after that due to poor attendance numbers and lackluster performance on ice throughout their tenure there.
Although no longer around today, the legacy left behind by these pioneering players still lives on through current NHL franchises like Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals & St Louis Blues, which all adopted similar names inspired by national pride & loyalty towards one’s home nation. We can thank Mr. William Dwyer & co for leaving us such an essential piece of our sporting heritage here in North America!
Championship
Stanley Cup 0
Arena
*New York*
1925 – 1942 / Madison Square Garden
*Hamilton*
1920 – 1925 / Barton Street Arena
*Quebec*
1919 – 1920 / Quebec Arena
Owner
1936 – 1942 / Mervyn “Red” Dutton
1925 – 1936 / Bill Dwyer
1920 – 1925 / Abso Pure Ice Company
1919 – 1920 / Quebec Athletic Club
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history
- 1925
- 1941
-
The New Americans
In April of 1925, Duggan and Bill Dwyer, New York City’s most-celebrated prohibition bootlegger, were awarded the franchise for New York. Somewhat fortuitously given the shortage of players, the Hamilton Tigers, who had finished first the season before, had been suspended from the league after they struck for higher pay. However, the suspensions were quietly lifted in the off-season. Soon ... -
The Americans Hurting
The Americans made the playoffs again in 1938 – 1939 and 1939 – 1940 seasons but were bounced in the first round each time. Canada entered World War II in September 1939, and some of the team’s Canadian players left for military service. However, an even large number of players entered the military in 1940 – 1941. With a decimated ...
New York Americans History
The New York Americans history begins with one of the NHL’s first U.S.-based teams. The New York Americans hockey club was founded in 1925 and played in Manhattan out of Madison Square Garden. Originally known simply as the Americans, the franchise later adopted the Brooklyn Americans name during its final season.
Though often overshadowed by larger franchises, the New York Americans hockey team had competitive moments. They never won the Stanley Cup but made five playoff appearances from 1926 to 1942. One of their most celebrated seasons came in 1937–38, when the Americans upset the New York Rangers in a playoff series, delivering a Cinderella moment in the club’s legacy.
The New York Americans history was also marked by struggle. Financial difficulties were constant, especially during the Great Depression and later World War II. Attendance issues, ownership instability, and the increasing cost of travel added strain. In their final season (1941–42), as the Brooklyn Americans, the team could not sustain operations and folded after the season ended.
Team Achievements
Despite never winning the league championship, the New York Americans hockey franchise left behind several proud achievements. Their 1937–38 playoff series win over the Rangers remains a high point—a defining underdog victory. Players like Tommy Anderson (who won the Hart Trophy in 1942) brought individual glory to the franchise.
The New York Americans history helped pave the way for professional hockey in New York City and the U.S. more broadly. Their early presence contributed to the growth of the NHL in America, influencing future teams and helping establish Madison Square Garden as a major hockey arena. Even today, fans remember the Americans for their flair, their colors, and their resilience in a challenging era.
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