The story of Celtic visiting United States and Canada

Showing 1 of 5

Tartan Army at France 1998, Scotland v Brazil — Scotland v Brazil World Cup France 1998 Scotland supporters celebrate during the opening June 1998 game of the World Cup against Brazil at the Stade de France in Paris. Photo David Ashdown/IMAGO

Over the decades, the Celts have made numerous transatlantic trips, including some memorable and even controversial events.

This article tells the story of the Celts in the Americas.

CELTIC IN THE USA AND CANADA – 1931

Celtic's first floodlights experience — On 25 June 1931, Celtic went to the University of Detroit and faced the Michigan All-Stars, with the Hoops winning 5-0. This was the club’s first floodlights experience. Photo The Celtic Wiki

The Bhoys’ first trip across the Atlantic was in 1931. Thousands of fans went to Yorkhill Quay in Glasgow to wave off their heroes. The Celtic party travelled on the SS Caledonia, which would later be sunk during the Second World War, under the name HMS Scotstoun.

During a US and Canadian tour, Celtic played 13 games, winning nine, drawing one and losing three. The Bhoys appeared at various grounds, including famous Baseball stadia such as Wrigley Field in Chicago and Fenway Park in Boston.

Bertie Thomson flanked by “Peter” McGonagle left and Peter Scarff, right. 1931 North American tour. Photo The Celtic Wiki

This was a notable trip for different reasons, including being the first time that Celtic played under proper floodlights (against a Michigan XI at the University of Detroit Stadium).

Also on this visit, the Bhoys played against Joe Kennaway, who would later sign for Celtic in place of the tragic John Thomson, who died just weeks after returning from America.

CELTIC IN THE USA AND CANADA – 1951

Glasgow Celtic captain John McPhail (right) with his American counterpart prior to the match against the American All Stars soccer team at Triborough Stadium in New York City on 20th May 1951. Celtic won 5-1. (Photo by Popperfoto via Getty Images/Getty Images)

Celtic’s second American visit was in 1951. Once again, the Bhoys travelled as Scottish Cup winners, taking the trophy with them to display during their tour.

In total, the Celts played nine games across the USA and Canada, winning six, drawing two and losing one. They appeared in various locations, including New York, Toronto and also Kearney in New Jersey, which is famous for its huge Celtic Supporters’ Club.

On this trip, the Bhoys returned with some silverware. Celtic won the D. Kennedy Cup, beating Chicago Polish Eagles 4-0. The club still hold this trophy and it can be seen at Celtic Park.

Continues on the next page…

Showing 1 of 5