I took this photo in the summer of 1921 during a visit to downtown Canton, Ohio and their football preservation project called the Eleven moment in Pro Football History. The mural on the side of a building depicts images of Jim Thorpe and Ralph Hay as founders of the NFL in 1920. Though there is some debate ofver this statement they are credited with organizing the important meeting of Septmber 17, 1920 that started the APFA.
Canton, Ohio, the birthplace of professional football, proudly displays its heritage in the Founders Mural. This vibrant artwork celebrates the early pioneers who shaped today's sport, depicting the teams that formed the National Football League in 1920. The mural isn't just a collection of names; it's a visual history of the league's humble beginnings.
Among the painted faces and team logos are the Akron Pros, the very first NFL champions. Nearby, the Canton Bulldogs, a dominant force in the pre-NFL era, are a testament to the city's football legacy. The mural also showcases other charter members, a diverse group including the Chicago Cardinals, Chicago Tigers, Cleveland Tigers, Columbus Panhandles, Dayton Triangles, Green Bay Packers, Rock Island Independents, Toledo Maroons, Kenosha Maroons, Decatur Staleys, Detroit, Hammond Pros, Muncie Flyers, Racine Legion, and Rochester Jeffersons. Though some were short-lived, each team played a crucial role in laying the foundation for professional football's growth. The Founders Mural is a powerful reminder of these teams and their contributions, ensuring their place in football history.
