In 1946, Herb Trawick became one of the first African Americans to play professional football when he signed with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League. That same year, UCLA teammates Kenny Washington and Woody Strode made their groundbreaking debuts in the NFL for the Los Angeles Rams. After graduating from Kentucky State College where he was a three-time All-American (1940-42), Trawick served in the Army during World War II. When he returned from duty, he caught the attention of Lew Hayman, head coach and GM of CFL’s newly formed Alouettes franchise, who saw the immense popularity of Jackie Robinson with the Montreal Royals and was determined to bring a Black player to his team.

Standing 5’ 10” and weighing 230 pounds, Trawick spent his entire 12-year career with the Als, playing both ways on the offensive and defensive lines where his power and remarkable agility made him a force on the gridiron. By the time he retired in 1957, Trawick was the only original Alouette still with the team, a testament to his commitment and impact. His achievements include seven CFL All-Star and four Grey Cup appearances. His most memorable moment was scoring a touchdown on a fumble recovery during the Als’ triumph in the 1949 Grey Cup. A member of the CFL Hall of Fame, his #56 jersey is one of seven retired by the Alouettes.

Offered here is a special Montreal Alouettes trophy presented to Herb Trawick by the team in 1955, to honor their longest tenured player. The 9" by 15" black wooden base holds an football-shaped plaque made of Sterling Silver that reads, "1946-1955 -- Presented with admiration and affection from Montreal football fans to a great footballer and fine sportsman --Herb Trawick -- to commemorate 'Trawick-Wagner Fans Day' and ten years of outstanding service with the Alouettes -- Montreal, October 10, 1955." (Virgil Wagner was Montreal's star halfback from 1946-54). The award remains in fine overall condition with some scratches and other marks that typically come form age.