Birthplace of Hockey

Did you know that a brief passage in Sir John Franklin’s journals represents the first recorded mention of ice hockey in North America?

In 1825, Franklin noted that as his men settled into their winter quarters on the shores of Great Bear Lake, they passed the time by skating and playing hockey. Local Dene oral history also speaks of people “flying around” and playing on the ice. Today, hockey is a popular sport in Délı̨nę and the local team “the Braves” are a force to be reckoned with!

This historic event, and the place of pride it occupies in Délı̨nę, have inspired a mural, comic book, and custom-designed tabletop hockey game in the Discovery Gallery.

Délı̨nę is officially recognized as a Territorial Historic Site because of its hockey history.