The Chicago Bears (originally the Decatur Staleys) franchise were founded by A.E. Staley in 1919. Over these last 100 years, we’ve celebrated, we’ve dominated, we’ve laughed, we’ve cried. And through it all, we’ve remained loyal to our Monsters.
In honor of the 100-year anniversary, here are five fun facts you may or may not know about the Bears.
The franchise almost didn’t happen.
In 1915, a 20-year-old George Halas was supposed to board the Eastland, a steamship, for a work picnic. However, by the time he arrived, the ship has taken off and overturned in the Chicago River, killing more than 800 people.