Building the Future by Preserving the Past
Soccer History Lives Here is a research and creative studio dedicated to documenting the overlooked history of soccer in the United States. Through archival research, original filmmaking, photography, design, and public programming, we uncover the stories of the clubs, communities, and people who built the game long before the modern era.
Our work explores the intersection of soccer, labor, immigration, civil rights, industry, and culture. From Pullman's company teams and Southern Illinois mining communities to pioneering players like Gil Heron, we believe these stories deserve a permanent place in America's sporting history.
More than a digital archive, Soccer History Lives Here creates experiences that connect audiences with history through exhibitions, screenings, publications, educational programs, and live events.
Chuck Carlson - Founder
Chuck Carlson, a Chicago based archivist, researches, writes and presents about soccer history in Illinois with a focus on sport and society in coal mining communities between the 1880’s and 1940’s. Originally from Northfield, IL, his interest in soccer began when he started playing the game at age 4. Soccer has been a cross-cultural connecting point for him while travelling and living in countries such as South Africa, Thailand. Argentina, the United Kingdom and Germany. He is a board member of the Society for American Soccer History (S.A.S.H.) and holds a B.A. in Social Studies Education with an emphasis in History from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN.