Honoring Boxing Athletes

In an effort to "...honor and preserve boxing's rich heritage, chronicle the achievements of those who excelled and provide and educational experience for many visitors,'' the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York opens its doors to all who love boxing and to those who wish to learn more about its rich history. After years of being envious of the honors bestowed upon other athletes like Major League Baseball and National Football League players, boxers finally got their due. Boxing had no geographical home, legendary or literal, and there were mixed feelings about where its hall of fame would best be suited. Finally it was decided to locate it in Canastota, New York.

Boxing's history has gone unrecorded in many cases. While there are legends and stories of many of the greats, there was no warehouse of factual data as there is in many sports. Canastota had two hometown boxing heroes, and because of this, it was decided to locate the hall of fame in that town. Carmen Basilio and Billy Backus were both from the town and it was the townspeople who demanded these men, and others like them, be honored. Fueled by the excitement and success of these two men, word got around there was a possibility of a hall of fame in the town. In 1989 this plan came to fruition as the hall of fame opening was witnessed by numerous boxing legends including Muhammad Ali. The hall of fame has expanded over the last two decades and now includes an event pavilion and an additional wing in the hall of fame museum. Every June the hall holds its annual induction ceremony which is a four day celebration of the sport, culminating in the induction of the hall's newest members.

A trip to the hall is not complete without a shopping spree in the gift shop. Here you will find boxing memorabilia like autographed souvenirs, educational books, and videos, all meant to share the passion people have for the sport. Also included in the items for sale are popular Hollywood items like Rocky figurines and T-Shirts, children's games and books, and gift items like stuffed animals, key rings, and shot glasses.

The hall is located in Madison County, one of the best areas of upstate New York. Just minutes from Utica and Syracuse, the county is filled with small towns and villages that are a page out of yesteryear. There are quiet country inns, beds and breakfast accommodations, and a variety of boutiques, antique shops, and farmer's markets. The summertime, when the induction ceremony is held, is one of the best times to visit the area. During your time you can schedule strolls through town and shopping trips, or these activities can offer an alternative to those in your group who are not boxing fans.

Families will love spending time along the Erie Canal, boating, swimming, hiking, and horseback riding. You can choose from a variety of restaurants that suit all tastes, and create a picture perfect weekend upstate, all planned around the induction ceremonies at the International Boxing Hall of Fame.