Rare Set of 1945 “End-of-War” Newspaper Flongs: The Albertan

For sale is a unique, visually striking pair of original newspaper flongs (industrial papier-mâché printing molds) from The Albertan, dated May 3 and May 10, 1945.
These artifacts bookend the final days of World War II in Europe (VE Day: May 8, 1945), capturing the exact moment global sports transitioned from wartime service back to peacetime.
These flongs were discovered preserved inside the arms of a vintage chair during a recent reupholstery project. They remain flat and highly readable, featuring authentic “character” marks, including small tack holes along the edges from their decades spent as upholstery stuffing.

Historical Highlights – May 3, 1945 (The Final Days of War):

Heroism in Sport: Features the story of Major Montgomery “Bud” Wilson, the 10-time North American figure skating champion and Olympic medalist, being awarded the U.S. Bronze Star for military service.
Hockey Legends: Includes stories on Dick Irvin (legendary Montreal Canadiens coach) and Mud Bruneteau (Detroit Red Wings star).
Baseball & Military Service: Mentions the “Big Train” Walter Johnson, boxing legend Lew Jenkins (the “Sweetwater Swatter”), and local Foothills Baseball League President S/L Bill Hansen.
Jockey Eddie Arcaro estimated winnings of over $3.6 Million.
Nostalgic Ads: Includes wartime appeals like “Buy War Savings Stamps” and a vintage ad for Vogue Pure White Cigarette Papers.

Historical Highlights – May 10, 1945 (The First Days of Peace):

Headline – “US Racing Ban Has Been Lifted”: A major post-war milestone documenting the official return of horse racing as wartime restrictions ended.
NHL Leadership Crisis: A rare editorial by Harry Scott asking “Who will succeed Dutton as President?” referring to Red Dutton, who famously preserved the NHL through WWII.
Championship Basketball: Coverage of the Hayes Hellcats (Merritton) winning the Dominion Cage Title (Canadian Senior Men’s Basketball Championship) against the Vancouver Lauries.
Baseball Icons: Features stories on “Immortal” Honus Wagner and the New York Giants.

Condition:

Type: Authentic industrial papier-mâché printing molds (flongs).
Text: Remarkably clear and easy to read; excellent for framing.
Wear: Torn edges (not cut) and minor holes along the margins from original upholstery tacks, adding to the item’s “hidden history” provenance.

Ideal for: Collectors of Calgary history, NHL/MLB historians, or those seeking unique industrial art from the WWII era.

Can be picked up if local, or shipped at buyer’s expense.
$100 for the pair.

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