Resolution celebrating the 127 years of Thanksgiving football games between the Northeast High School Vikings and the Central High School Lancers, the longest running football rivalry between public high schools in the country.

WHEREAS, In 1892, the Northeast High and Central High school football teams played a game on Thanksgiving Day, giving rise to the longest running sports rivalry between public high schools in the country; and

WHEREAS, Each year, the two high schools play each other on Thanksgiving Day, competing for “The Wooden Horse” Trophy. The trophy is named after the “Horse and Buggy Days” referencing the main mode of transportation for many American’s during 1890’s; and

WHEREAS, The Trophy came into existence in 1947, after it was hand carved from mahogany wood by Spurgeon Smith, a student from NE High. Each year, the winner of the Thanksgiving game receives “The Wooden Horse” trophy, and claims ownership for the next year; and

WHERAS, This tradition honors the men who have played these games for the past 127 years, and celebrates their dedication to their high school and the game; and

WHEREAS, The current record between the two teams is 61-52-10, with Northeast High holding 61 wins, and Central High holding 52 wins. We look forward to another 127 years of rivalry; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby celebrate the 127th Thanksgiving football game between Northeast High and Central High School.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to both schools as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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