The Frugal Founder: Lester Patrick’s Notorious Penny-Pinching
Lester Patrick, the founder and patriarch of the New York Rangers, was well-known for his meticulous attention to financial detail. Stories of his frugality have been circulating for years, often painting a picture of a man who was more than just economical—he was almost notorious for his cost-saving measures. One particularly memorable anecdote comes from the book "Hockey’s Royal Family," which delves into the rich history of the Patrick family in hockey. This story, recounted by Lester’s older son, Lynn Patrick, offers a fascinating glimpse into the legendary penny-pinching ways of The Silver Fox.
A La Carte Folly on the Train to St. Louis
During a train ride to a game in St. Louis, Lynn Patrick, along with fellow rookies Alex Shibicky and the Colville brothers Neil and Mac, sat down to enjoy a meal together. Shibicky, eager to impress and perhaps a bit naive, suggested, "Okay, guys, let’s order a la carte." The term "a la carte" might have sounded sophisticated and impressive, but it essentially meant they were opting for the most expensive way to order their food. Despite their initial reservations, the other rookies went along with Shibicky’s suggestion, and they indulged in a lavish dinner, signing the bills without a second thought.
The Morning After: A Lesson in Frugality
The next morning, the rookies were summoned to Lester Patrick’s compartment, a space he always reserved for the team’s train travels. With a stern expression, Lester laid down the law. He began by acknowledging that the rookies might have a long tenure with the Rangers and that there were certain things they needed to learn early on. He then pointed to their dinner bill from the previous night, which he found "scandalous." Lester’s message was clear: while they were with the Rangers, he expected them to handle the team’s money with the same care and diligence as they would their own. The bill, he emphasized, was a glaring example of what not to do.
The Meal Allowance: Five Dollars a Day
Lester Patrick was nothing if not practical. He informed the rookies that their meal allowance for the day was a mere five dollars. This amount, he stressed, was meant to cover all their meals, from breakfast to dinner. It was a stark contrast to the extravagance of their a la carte feast, and the rookies quickly realized the gravity of the situation. The allowance was not just a budgetary constraint but a reflection of Patrick’s values and the team’s culture of fiscal responsibility.
Learning the Hard Way
The lesson sank in, and some of the rookies indeed took Lester’s advice to heart. Lynn Patrick, Alex Shibicky, Neil Colville, and Mac Colville learned to be more mindful of their expenses and to respect the team’s resources. This anecdote serves as a reminder of the importance of frugality and the impact that a leader’s values can have on an entire organization. Lester Patrick’s frugality wasn’t just about saving money; it was about instilling a sense of discipline and responsibility in his players.
A Legacy of Careful Spending
The story of Lester Patrick’s frugality on the train to St. Louis is more than just a cautionary tale. It highlights the enduring legacy of careful spending and financial prudence that he left behind in the Rangers organization. His approach to managing the team’s finances was not only practical but also deeply ingrained in the team’s ethos. Years later, this story continues to be shared and remembered, a testament to the lasting influence of The Silver Fox on the culture of the New York Rangers.
