The Washington Commanders, a prominent team in the National Football League (NFL), have a rich history that dates back to their founding in 1932. The team was established by George Preston Marshall, a businessman with a vision for professional football. Initially known as the Boston Braves, the team underwent several transformations before becoming the Washington Commanders. This article delves into the early years of the franchise, highlighting key
developments and changes that shaped its identity.
The Birth of the Boston Braves
In 1932, George Preston Marshall, along with three partners, was awarded an NFL franchise in Boston. The team was named the Boston Braves, sharing a field with the baseball team of the same name. However, the first season was financially challenging, resulting in a $46,000 loss. This financial strain led Marshall's partners to sell their shares, leaving him as the sole owner. Despite the initial setbacks, Marshall was determined to make the team a success.
In 1933, Marshall made significant changes to the team. He moved the home games to Fenway Park, the home of the Boston Red Sox, and hired Lone Star Dietz as the head coach. Dietz claimed to be part Sioux, which influenced Marshall's decision to rename the team the Redskins. This name change was intended to maintain the Native American theme associated with the team's previous name, the Braves.
Relocation to Washington, D.C.
Despite winning the Eastern division in 1936, the team struggled to garner fan support in Boston. This lack of enthusiasm prompted Marshall to relocate the team to Washington, D.C., in 1937. The move marked a new chapter for the franchise, as it became the Washington Redskins. The relocation proved to be a pivotal decision, as the team found a more supportive fan base in the nation's capital.
Marshall's vision for the team extended beyond the field. He saw the NFL as a form of entertainment and introduced elements such as halftime shows, marching bands, and a fight song, "Hail to the Redskins." These innovations helped enhance the game-day experience and attract more fans to the stadium.
Innovations and Impact
Marshall was not only focused on the team's success but also on the evolution of the game itself. He collaborated with George Halas, owner of the Chicago Bears, to propose rule changes that would increase scoring. One such change allowed forward passes from anywhere behind the line of scrimmage, rather than requiring a minimum distance. Another change involved moving the goal posts to the goal line to encourage more field goals.
These innovations had a lasting impact on the NFL, contributing to the league's growth and popularity. Marshall's efforts to standardize the schedule and ensure fair revenue sharing among teams also played a crucial role in the league's development. His vision and leadership helped lay the foundation for the Washington Commanders' future success and established the team as a significant force in professional football.
