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The NFL Hall of Fame came into existence 60 years ago when a need was felt to honor the heroes of the game, preserve its history, promote its values and celebrate excellence everywhere. Since then, it has been one of the highest and most prestigious honors for football players.
Every year, a few players are inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame who have made oustanding contributions to the NFL.
Offensive tackle Tony Boselli, wide receiver Cliff Branch, safety LeRoy Butler, linebacker Sam Mills, defensive linemen Richard Seymour and Bryant Young make up the Class of 2022 Hall of Famers.
The decision to build a Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio was taken by the National Football League in 1961 and the construction of the building ended a year later. However, the facility wasn't opened to the public until September 7, 1963.
Over the past 60 years, the museum has seen many changes and expansions throughout the years. The area of the museum has grown considerably, from 19,000 square feet to 118,000 square feet. Also, since 1963, the museum has welcomed more than 10 million visitors.
Why is Pro Football Hall of Fame located in Canton?
The decision to build the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio was based on three reasons-
#1 The National Football League was founded in Canton
The American Professional Football Association, later known as the National Football League, was established on September 17, 1920, by a group of men who convened in an auto showroom in Canton. Ralph Hay, who also managed the Canton Bulldogs at the time, was the owner of the Auto Showroom.
Although American football has been played since 1892, there has never been a league with a formalized organization. The Hall of Fame was established in Canton, Ohio, for this reason as the first.
#2 Canton Bulldogs won the first two NFL leagues
A team that competed ever since American Football began was the Canton Bulldogs. The Bulldogs won back-to-back championships in 1922 and 1923 when the league was founded. It became the first team to win consecutive championships and holds the record for the NFL's greatest winning run (22-0-3) during the 25-game season.
#3 The funds to build the Hall of Fame was raised by the residents of Canton
Last but not least, and arguably the most significant factor in the facility's decision to be located in Canton is the fact that the city's residents worked together in 1960 to raise the funds required to create the Hall of Fame.
The feat of generating $400,000 served as the strongest justification for choosing Canton as the location of the NFL Hall of Fame.
