History of Sid Hartman in Timeline

"Sidney Hartman was an influential figure in American sports journalism. He spent many years with the Minneapolis Star Tribune and WCCO radio, becoming a familiar voice to readers and listeners alike. He was also a regular presence on television, appearing on the 'Sports Show with Mike Max' for two decades. Hartman's career in sports journalism continued until his passing in 2020."

March 15, 1920: Birth of Sid Hartman

American sports journalist, Sid Hartman, was born on March 15, 1920, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

1941: Loss of Tribune News Run and Brief Stint as a Salesman

In 1941, Sid Hartman lost his news run with the Minneapolis Tribune after it was acquired by John Cowles Sr. He briefly worked as a vacuum salesman but admitted to not being well-suited for the role.

1944: Start of Sports Writing Career

Sid Hartman's sports writing career began in 1944 when he was hired as an intern by Dick Cullum, the sports editor and columnist for the Minneapolis Times.

September 11, 1945: First Column for the Star Tribune

Sid Hartman published his first column for the Minneapolis Star Tribune on September 11, 1945, marking the beginning of a long-lasting relationship with the newspaper.

1945: Start of Friendship with Bud Grant

Sid Hartman's friendship with Bud Grant, a prominent figure in Minnesota sports, began in 1945.

1947: Acting General Manager of the Minneapolis Lakers

At the age of 27, in 1947, Sid Hartman took on the role of acting general manager for the Minneapolis Lakers, contributing to the team's development into an NBA dynasty.

1955: Debut as Radio Sportscaster

In 1955, Sid Hartman expanded his media presence by becoming a radio sportscaster and commentator for WCCO Radio in Minneapolis.

1964: Marriage to Barbara Balfour

Sid Hartman married Barbara Balfour in 1964.

1972: Passing of Sid Hartman's Parents

In 1972, both of Sid Hartman's parents, Jack and Celia, passed away.

1972: Divorce from Barbara Balfour

Sid Hartman and Barbara Balfour divorced in 1972.

1994: Induction of Bud Grant into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

Sid Hartman had the honor of inducting his close friend, Bud Grant, into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994.

2007: Meeting with Prince

Sid Hartman had a meeting with the renowned musician, Prince, during the preparations for Prince's Super Bowl XLI halftime show performance in 2007.

2008: Bernie Madoff Scandal

Sid Hartman was among the many individuals listed as clients of Bernie Madoff's Ponzi scheme, which came to light in 2008. The extent of any financial losses Hartman might have incurred remains undisclosed.

October 10, 2010: Statue Unveiling at Target Center

A statue honoring Sid Hartman was unveiled outside Target Center in Minneapolis on October 10, 2010, recognizing his significant contributions to the world of sports.

December 2016: Hip Injury and Surgery

Sid Hartman experienced a fall in December 2016, resulting in a broken right hip and subsequent surgery. This incident led to a hiatus from his column writing.

January 13, 2017: Return to Work After Hip Injury

After a hip injury in December 2016, Sid Hartman returned to work on January 13, 2017, attending a press conference for the new Gophers football coach, P.J. Fleck.

March 2018: Closure of Vescio's and Hartman Tribute

Vescio's, an Italian restaurant in Minneapolis, closed in March 2018. The restaurant had a pizza named "Sid's Special" as a tribute to Hartman.

November 17, 2018: Renaming of Press Box at TCF Bank Stadium

The University of Minnesota renamed the press box at TCF Bank Stadium to the Sid Hartman Press Box on November 17, 2018, honoring his legacy in sports journalism.