Up for bid on eBay is the Stanley Cup creator's autograph, Lord Stanley of Preston.
The fine signature includes “Stanley of Preston / March / 92,” penned on a small card.
The seller says, "A rare and desirable autograph. After Lord Stanley of Preston was appointed by Queen Victoria as Governor General of Canada on June 11, 1888, he and his family became highly enthusiastic about ice hockey. Stanley was first exposed to the game at Montreal's 1889 Winter Carnival, where he saw the Montreal Victorias play the Montreal Hockey Club. Stanley's entire family became active in ice hockey."
The seller continues, "Two of his sons, Arthur and Algernon, formed a new team called the Ottawa Rideau Hall Rebels. Arthur also played a key role in the formation of what later became known as the Onntario Hockey Association, and would go on to be the founder of ice hockey in Great Britain. Arthur and Algernon persuaded their father to donate a trophy to be 'an outward and visible sign of the hockey championship'."
Soon afterwards, the seller adds, Stanley purchased a decorative punch bowl, made in Sheffield, England, and sold by London silversmith G. R. Collis and Company [now Boodle and Dunthorne Jewellers]. He had the words "Dominion Hockey Challenge Cup" engraved on one side of the outside rim, and "From Stanley of Preston" on the other side.
For many this autograph will be like winning the Stanley Cup. To get in the game, click the link provided above and place your winning bid.
