Here's one certain to capture the imagination of old-time hockey fans: a simply stunning 1951-52 Chicago Blackhawks sweater worn by legendary defenseman Al Dewsbury, a eight-year NHL veteran who scored 108 total points in his career. The shirt is sensational, but also comes with an fascinating signed letter from Dewsbury, written elegantly in his own hand and complete with historical content.
First the sweater: a heavy wool knit is arrayed in a vivid pattern of alternating red, white and black team colors, with a Black Hawks felt team logo on the front with intricate embroidered stitching that is as well preserved as the shirt itself. Wilson manufacturer's labeling appears on the back inside tail, with adjacent and attached flag tags with "42" and wash instructions. Dewsbury's No. 5 is on the back in an enormous presentation in white and red felt and in similarly stunning condition. As noted, the condition of the shirt is wonderful, complete with assorted nicks and dings attesting to genuine game use back to the days of the Korean War.
For those who like a little poignancy mixed in with museum-worth artifacts, the accompanying letter from Dewsbury to Blackhawks Vice President Bill Tobin should do the trick. Dated Sept. 4, 1951, Dewsbury wrote and very politely declined Tobin's suggestion from an earlier correspondence that (Dewsbury) might take a cut in salary and sign a contract with a minor-league clause included. The letter, neatly signed at the bottom, is a testimony to a different time in the country (OK, technically Canada) when schools place a tremendous emphasis on cursive writing. The letter, 8-by-10 inches, has been matted in black to 16-by-14 inches, with a window cut in the mat alongside showcasing a hockey card of Dewsbury - not career contemporary. The letter reveals a fold and the mat has undergone some warping and corner wear, but remains highly presentable.
Includes a Letter of Provenance from The Newport Sports Museum.