Euan C.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver Heritage Fair

Bauer: A Canadian Hockey Giant

My project is about the Canadian hockey apparel giant, Bauer. This is the story of Roy Bauer, his company's history, struggles and setbacks and ultimate rise to the top of the world hockey market.

 

 

 

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

The Bauer Company actually started out as a shoe company based out of Kitchener, Ontario (The Western Shoe Company). However, because of the Great Depression of the '30s the company was forced to diversify and begin producing hockey skates. Then in 1933, Roy Bauer created the first skate with a blade permanently secured to the boot changing hockey forever.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

Roy Bauer wanted to be in business but suffered setbacks during the Depression. Instead of quitting, he diversified his company and created something great. He's an example of a determined and successful Canadian entrepreneur.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

Back in the early 1900s hockey was an even bigger part in Canadian culture than it is today. I would say hockey was a lot more dangerous then than it is today. Bauer played a part in improving equipment and the safety of the game.