Rangers to celebrate history, heroes throughout centennial season

The Rangers’ centennial celebration promises to appeal to every generation. 

As part of a year-long campaign designed to touch on every era in the franchise’s 100 years, the Blueshirts will host eight special theme nights at Madison Square Garden this season that will honor the organization’s history, most distinguished members and the city and fans who have been such an integral part of it all. 

There will be unique fan experiences and community-driven programs offered, as well as a multitude of alumni appearances. 

Legendary Rangers broadcaster Sam Rosen will be heavily involved in each aspect, specifically in the role of “Master of Ceremonies” for on-ice portions of select theme nights. 

“We are looking forward to the celebration of the Rangers Centennial season — one that will be truly unforgettable for our fans and honors the Rangers’ storied history,” MSG owner James Dolan said in a team release. “This is a special opportunity to recognize the great moments, players, and so much more that has brought us all together for a century of Rangers hockey.”

Beginning in October, the Rangers are set to unveil a new exhibit in the main concourse at the Garden. It will showcase historic artifacts and memorabilia, the contents of which will rotate every few weeks to display an array of items from some of the team’s most memorable moments. 

The organization will also host an “elevated” Casino Night for fans to celebrate with players from past and present. 

The theme night series begins Oct. 20 with the “Birth of the Franchise,” which will cover 1926-1942. The Rangers plan to toast their first three Stanley Cups in 1928, 1933 and 1940. 

“Milestones and Moments” on Nov. 8 will be the first non-era related evening. All of the Rangers’ biggest moments will be acclaimed, as well as meaningful, smaller ones. 

“The Original Six Era” from 1942 to 1967 is to be celebrated on Nov. 16, and “The New Garden,” from 1967 to 1991, will take place on Dec. 13. 

On Jan. 8, there will be a “Fan Favorites” night, when several of the most iconic Blueshirts make their way back to the Garden. While the names are being kept a surprise, expect to see those who have captured the hearts of The Garden faithful.  

The years from 1991 to 2004 will be celebrated on Jan. 26, with a heavy focus on 1994 and big names like Mark Messier and Wayne Gretzky. 

The Rangers’ illustrious goaltending history will then get its moment on Feb. 5 before 2004 to the present day is recognized as the “Modern Era” on March 5. 

“The Centennial season promises to be a special year for everyone associated with the New York Rangers — the players, front office, staff, and, of course, our loyal and passionate fans,” Rangers president and general manager Chris Drury said in a team release. “Wearing the Rangers uniform is an honor and privilege unlike any other in the National Hockey League, and that is because of the legacy that has been created here over 100 years. We all can’t wait to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime season.”