Chicago sporting goods history includes Spalding and Wilson foundations
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 9:08 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026
The Vintage Chicago Tribune highlights the history of sporting goods manufacturers in Chicago, focusing on Spalding and Wilson. Spalding, founded in 1876 by Albert Spalding, is known for creating the first baseball, basketball, and American football. Wilson, established in 1914, started from a meat packing company and eventually became known for the NFL’s official football. The series details the impact these companies had on sports equipment and their enduring legacy in various sports.
- •Spalding launched in 1876, known for baseballs used in Major League Baseball.
- •Wilson began in 1914 as part of a meat packing firm.
- •Both companies played essential roles in developing sports equipment.
- •Spalding created the world's first basketball with James Naismith's input.
- •Wilson has provided the NFL's official football since 1941.
- 9:08 PMYahoo Sports — Vintage Chicago Tribune: Did you know sporting goods companies Spalding and Wilson started here?
"You probably have a piece of Chicago history inside your home right now. Maybe it’s in the basement, a front-hall closet or bouncing around your living room floor (if you have a sports enthusiast, like I do). Balls of all shapes and sizes and other equipment used in popular sports have been designed or created right here going back to the 1800s. The city has a rich history of sports ...
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