BOB GOLDHAM NIGHT IN DETROIT - 1955

On the evening of March 3, 1955, Detroit hockey fans celebrated Bob Goldham Night at the Olympia in Detroit.

Goldham joined the Red Wings in an off-season deal on July 13, 1950. He became a fan favourite for his unique ability to block shots. This skill was also greatly appreciated by his teammates, especially, those that played between the pipes.

Already a two time Stanley Cup champion with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Goldham added two more Cups with Detroit before he was honoured with his own night. And he added another in the 1955 Stanley Cup final.

To recognize and salute Goldham for his steady play, his fans, along with the Red Wings, created a committee in January of 1955 to organize Bob Goldham Night.

A number of written tributes were received with glowing words for Goldham the hockey player and  man.

Clarence Campbell, the president of the National Hockey League, wrote, "I'm very happy to join your project to salute a very fine hockey player and a real gentleman."

Bucko McDonald, Goldham's partner on the Leafs' blue line in his rookie season, wrote, "I'm very happy that you are going to be rewarded for your long and faithful service in the National Hockey League - in my estimation there is no one more deserving of this than you are. I have very happy memories of our hockey days together."

Prior to the big night, the city of Detroit's Common Council passed a resolution that honoured Goldham. "Now let it therefore be resolved that members of the Common Council on behalf of the people of Detroit hereby join his thousands of friends and admirers in paying tribute to Robert John Goldham, a champion Red Wing, a great athlete and gentleman who has enhanced and glorified the traditions of great sportsmanship."

Michigan governor, G. Mennan Willams (C) and Detroit City Council president, Louis Miriani, present Bob Goldham with  a scroll and a plaque.

The mayor of Goldham's hometown, Georgetown, Ontario, planned a trip to the Motor City. John T. Armstrong wrote, "It is my intention to be there and we have purchased an 8-mm projector and camera for presentation to Bob."

Although Goldham was in uniform for the pre-game ceremony, he didn't dress for the contest.

 "The unfortunate part of the evening, however, was my inability to play as I had a bad ankle and was out of the line-up," Goldham recalled.

"They presented Elly and I with a new station wagon and all sorts of gifts. At my night in the Olympia, the mayor of Georgetown was there making a presentation. Our good friend and neighbour from Toronto, Bert Delany, presented me with fishing equipment. Ted Lindsay, on behalf of the players, gave us a tea service."