December 4, 1952

James E Norris Sr.

December 4, 1952
Detroit Red Wings
Red Wings Owner (1933 - 1952)
5x Stanley Cup Champion
Hockey Hall of Fame

James E. Norris Sr.

Detroit Red Wings Owner (1933 – 1952)

James Norris was born in Montreal, Quebec and as a youth was an accomplished athlete playing hockey, squash and tennis. He played Hockey at McGill University and as a defenseman helped them win the 1897 intermediate championship. His family had amassed substantial wealth in the 19th century, owning mills and a fleet of ships. When the Detroit Falcons and the Olympia Arena had been placed into receivership, Norris made a bid on the franchise and won approval from the NHL and the receiver. Under Norris’ ownership the Falcons, now known as the Red Wings, became one of the most powerful and successful NHL franchises, winning five Stanley Cup Championships. Norris also had financial interest in the Chicago Black Hawks, the New York Rangers and the Boston Bruins. The James Norris Memorial Trophy is awarded annually to the NHL’s top defenseman. James Norris was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1958 and was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 1976. He passed away on December 4, 1952 at 72 years of age.