A closer look at Vermont ’ s impact on hockey , penned in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Boston Bruins and their Vermont-born founder , Charles F . Adams
Charles F . Adams
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Breakaway
Success
A closer look at Vermont ’ s impact on hockey , penned in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Boston Bruins and their Vermont-born founder , Charles F . Adams
COURTESY NHL / Hockey Hall of Fame
Since the earliest days of the National Hockey League ( NHL ), Vermont has made unique , crucial contributions to the evolution of hockey as a sport and cultural phenomenon at every level . From celebrated athletic venues that have hosted legendary NHL icons , such as Wayne Gretzky , to seasoned sportscasters and coaches with deep connections to Vermont , the Green Mountain State ’ s connection to hockey runs deeper than the ice on Lake Champlain in the heart of winter . As we mark the centennial anniversary of the beloved NHL team , the Boston Bruins , in 2024 , we at Vermont Magazine are proud to honor the Vermont roots of the Bruins ’ founder , Charles F . Adams .
In the annals of hockey history , few figures embody the spirit of entrepreneurial vigor and passion for the sport as well as Charles Francis Adams . His journey to becoming a pivotal figure in professional hockey is a narrative steeped in heartfelt determination and an unwavering love of the game .
Charles F . Adams ’ story began in 1876 in Newport , Vermont . Born into modest circumstances , Adams graduated from Newport High School , and he spent time in both Newport and Springfield over the course of his childhood and adolescence . Adams ’ early life beautifully illustrates the value of hard work . He started his career as a grocery clerk , and the lessons that he learned on the front lines of the retail industry laid the foundation for his future success .
Adams ’ transition from a low-level retail worker to a luminary in the hockey world was marked by a series of astute career and business decisions . After moving from Vermont to Boston , his life took a series of pivotal turns , and he put his education from Enosburgh ’ s Jenney Business College ( in Vermont ) to good use . He found favorable momentum as a lumber broker , and went on to serve as Treasurer of The New England Maple Syrup Company in Cambridge , MA . Following a short stint as a banking executive , Adams transitioned back to the retail world ,
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