Women’s First Canadian Field Hockey Teams
Vancouver and Victoria women’s field hockey teams have rivaled since the 1890s!
Face off!
It’s Victoria vs Vancouver in these first photos of Canadians playing field hockey, circa 1891-1901
I discovered these old black and white photographs in the archives of the University of British Columbia Library, Uno Langmann Collection.
Taken at the turn of the century, I thought they’d be a great addition to my Inspiring Women page.
Move the slider back and forth to compare the before photos with my restored, colourized versions. I would love to hear your feedback in the comments section at the end of the post!
in 1896, women played Canada’s first recorded field hockey match, thus forming the Vancouver Ladies Club.
Photos from early women’s teams suggest the women played wearing knitted turtleneck sweaters, long skirts, gloves and hats. In fact, their long skirts were believed to be a goaltending advantage!
Sources: WOMEN’S HOCKEY HERSTORY: 1890 TO 1990 and Poster Print of Girl's Hockey 1890Setting the tone
I particularly enjoyed colourizing this close-up of the Victoria women’s field hockey team, giving their opponents - the Vancouver team - a menacing stare!
I would love to hear your feedback. Feel free to leave your comments here!