The Mysterious Return of Brownie the Elf
After a 76-year history, Brownie the Elf has made a triumphant return as the midfield logo of the Cleveland Browns. But have you ever wondered where this beloved mascot came from?
A Legendary Beginning
The legend of Brownie dates back to 16th-century Britain, where mythical creatures known as “Brownies” were said to inhabit houses and farms, performing domestic chores in exchange for food and shelter. These mischievous beings were known to be finicky, appreciating gifts of milk and bread but despising compliments and criticism.
From Root Beer to Football
Fast forward to 1929, when the Atlas Beverage Company in Detroit created a Brownie caramel cream root beer, featuring an elf on its bottles. A sign advertising the soda in Massillon, Ohio, caught the attention of Paul Brown, the legendary coach of the Cleveland Browns. Brown commissioned a local artist to create a logo for his team, and thus Brownie the Elf was born.
A Winning Tradition
Brownie quickly became an integral part of the Browns’ identity, appearing on the team’s media guide covers and even inspiring a sideline mascot. With Brownie by their side, the Browns won seven championships, including four consecutive All-America Football Conference titles from 1946-49.
The Elf’s Exile and Return
However, when Art Modell bought the team in 1961, he banished Brownie, deeming the elf “that little f—er” unworthy of the team’s image. But the spirit of Brownie lived on, thanks to cartoonist Dick Dugan, who featured the elf in his Cleveland Plain-Dealer comics. In 1995, when the Browns returned to Cleveland after a brief exile in Baltimore, Brownie was reinstated as the team’s beloved mascot.
A New Era for Brownie
Today, Brownie is more prominent than ever, featuring on the team’s walkthrough jerseys and midfield logo. Even head coach Kevin Stefanski has adopted the elf as his good luck charm, wearing a Brownie cap almost every day since taking the helm in 2020. With Brownie back in the spotlight, the Browns are hoping to recapture their winning ways and bring an eighth championship to the city of Cleveland.
Will the Elf Bring Good Fortune?
Only time will tell if Brownie’s return will translate to success on the field. But one thing is certain – the mysterious and beloved elf has captured the hearts of fans and players alike, cementing his place in the rich history of the Cleveland Browns.
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