Brief History:
The personable Edmund Quinn stepped into the role as promoter for the "City of Saints" in 1939 on the orders of New England wrestling czar Paul Bowser and never complained. He saw the opportunity of a lifetime, seized the moment, and became a millionaire because of it. Wrestling fans in Montreal were also not going to grumble as the promotional reins switched over from Jack Ganson to Quinn, and after decades and decades of unbelieveable entertainment, all they could do is applaud his dedication and value to the city. Quinn was successful in wrestling on many levels and had enough power to be able to change the course of wrestling history on a dime, if he wanted. His outside the ring influence was just as mighty, but Quinn, outside of a excursion or two into the territories of his opposition, tried to keep his focus on the lighter side of the business. His passion for professional wrestling was never questioned and his commitment to certain objectives and/or convictions were admirable traits. Because of his absolute devotion and enthusiasm, Quinn became one of the most important men in grappling history.
Wrestlers from Quebec:
Baillargeon Family:
The "World's Strongest Family." There were 12 children in the famed Baillargeon Family from St. Magloire, Quebec. Adrien and Jean were the first two siblings coaxed into wrestling by promoter Roland Sainte Marie.
Adrien stood 6'5" and weighed 235 pounds. He reportedly supported in excess of 3,000 lbs. on his back and 17 men on a board.
Paul Baillargeon reportedly lifted Sam Muchnick’s desk over his head, demonstrating his strength. He was said to have lifted a 1470 pound horse. Charles Baillargeon could pull a bus with 87 people inside with his teeth. Antonio lifted 500 pounds in a deep knee bend. Geraldine claimed to be the “strongest woman in the world.”
Miscellaneous Notes and Milestones:
Eddie Quinn celebrated his 150th anniversary in the promotions of wrestling on television when he offered his February 22, 1956 program at the Montreal Forum.
Obituaries:
Longtime sport writer for the Montreal Herald and later the Star, Elmer Ferguson died on Wednesday, April 26, 1972 at the age of 87 in Montreal. Ferguson, a native of Charlottetown, was a close associate of Montreal promoter Eddie Quinn and wrote about many wrestling-related issues in his column, "The Gist and Jest of It."
Montreal Wrestling Titles:
World Heavyweight Title
Montreal Wrestling Results:
Montreal Wrestling Results - 1948 Montreal Wrestling Results - 1952
Montreal Wrestling Results - 1956
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