Introduction
The Western Pennsylvania Hockey League (WPHL) was a Top-Player League and first ever professional hockey league that operated in the north-eastern United States during the late 19th century. The league played season 1 in 1896-97, 130 years ago.
The Western Pennsylvania Hockey League (WPHL) played in Pittsburgh and was home to the only artificial ice hockey rink in North America. This season is considered to be an amateur season. The WPHL would play an important role in the development of Hockey players, but none of its teams would go on to leave a legacy.
There was a fire at the only arena so the league stopped the season from being completed. The league would not play for the 1897-98 season but would return for 1898-99.
Classification
Season Length
No records
Season Champion
None due to fire at hockey rink that ended season before champion was declared.
# of Teams
4
Season Standings
Season Playoffs
There were no championship playoffs as the season ended early due to arena file.
Future Features
Last Updated on June 27, 2026 by Al Young