The iconic Hart House in Calgary, a landmark deeply rooted in Canadian wrestling history, has been subjected to a disheartening act of vandalism, with several irreplaceable bronze plaques stolen from its entrance. The news, shared by members of the legendary Hart family, has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond.
The incident, which is believed to have occurred in mid-June, saw four bronze plaques ripped from brick pillars at the entrance of the sprawling 5,600-square-foot property. The theft not only deprives the historic home of a significant part of its heritage but also left visible damage to the pillars themselves.
Georgia Smith, daughter of the late Davey Boy Smith (aka the British Bulldog), took to social media to express her dismay and appeal for information.
Any information on who stole these from the Hart House property, please contact @CalgaryPolice,
she wrote, echoing the family's plea for public assistance. She further elaborated on Instagram, stating,
It makes me upset and mad to see this ?? Especially right before Canada Day. Any info on who stole bronze the [sic] plaques from the Hart House please contact us and the @calgarypolice.
Brooke Hart, one of Stu and Helen Hart's 39 grandchildren, spoke to local media, emphasizing the profound loss. "This is the last piece of my grandfather connected to that house. Our family is crushed that's these were stolen off the property of Hart House," she explained. She highlighted the historical significance of the plaques, noting that for years, fans from around the world would visit the house to take photos with them, connecting with the legacy of wrestling patriarch Stu Hart.
The stolen plaques, two of which reportedly featured "Foothills Athletic Club" with images of wrestlers, and the other two bearing "Hart House" inscriptions, were an integral part of the home's heritage designation. Built in 1905 and acquired by Stu and Helen Hart in 1951, Hart House served not only as the family residence but also as a renowned training ground for aspiring wrestlers, shaping the careers of countless superstars, including Bret and Owen Hart.
Calgary police have been notified of the incident and are actively investigating. The Hart family, along with authorities, urges anyone with information regarding the theft or the whereabouts of the plaques to come forward. The community remains hopeful that these cherished pieces of wrestling history can be recovered and returned to their rightful place at the legendary Hart House.
