Bullock Museum to be Gridiron Glory's only 2015 Texas stop

SEPTEMBER 16, 2015 (AUSTIN, TX) — "Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame" opens September 26, 2015, at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in downtown Austin. One of the most extensive and comprehensive exhibitions ever produced on America’s most popular sport, "Gridiron Glory" features 2,300 yards of original artifacts, rare documents, award-winning photographs, and remarkable footage from NFL Films that explore the cultural and historical significance of America’s football legacy. 

"The Bullock Museum is thrilled to bring this extraordinary exhibition to Texas," Director Dr. Victoria Ramirez said. "This is the best football exhibition that has travelled in decades featuring rare artifacts, electrifying footage, and fun interactives." 

Representing the best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, "Gridiron Glory" is offered in partnership with the Houston Texans and with items on loan from the Texans and the Dallas Cowboys during its only scheduled stop in Texas. Visitors will learn how football united America; how political and cultural events have changed the game; the inspirational stories of the game’s pioneers; and the rise and struggles of African American athletes in the sport. 

An iconic Vince Lombardi Super Bowl trophy and personal objects from dozens of gridiron legends will be on view. Original artifacts on loan from the Dallas Cowboys include the team's 1969 offensive playbook, Emmitt Smith’s autographed football from the game when he set a new career rushing record, and a helmet worn by Troy Aikman. The rise of the Houston Texans as the NFL’s 32nd franchise is documented through artifacts, like the invoice for the $700-million franchise purchase, and photos that chronicle the milestones in the building of the franchise. In addition, the careers of the 30 Hall of Famers born in Texas are highlighted, including Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, “Slingin” Sammy Baugh, Eric Dickerson, and Mike Singletary. 

"The exhibition would not have been complete if we did not celebrate our home state teams," Ramirez said. "We appreciate the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans contributions to the exhibition, two teams with incredible artifacts and stories." 

Rare documents, such as Tom Brady's 2000 NFL Draft Card, Emmitt Smith's rushing record play sheet, Arizona Cardinals incorporation papers, a 1957 championship game ticket, and a Washington Redskins program from Dec. 7, 1941, are included in the exhibition. Plus, one-of-a-kind artifacts like Jim Thorpe's 1917 Canton Bulldogs blanket, Sammy Baugh's leather helmet dating to the earliest days of football, Houston Oiler/ New Orleans Saints kicker Tom Dempsey’s specially-designed kicking shoe, and Texan Mean Joe Greene’s jersey. 

Connections between science and sport are explored through the very design of the football itself, the evolution of protective gear, and advances in communication and technology through the years. Interactive experiences challenge mind and body. Visitors can view some of the best game-winning plays of all time, try on football gear to see how they measure up to the pros, "make the call" after reviewing film footage from an NFL game in an instant replay booth, and more. 

"What makes this exhibition so extraordinary is the variety of artifacts and thorough examination of football as a sport, science, and cultural phenomenon," Ramirez said. "This exhibition will appeal to both the novice and season ticket holder. Visitors should be sure to check the museum's website for a full schedule of related programs and films." 

Bullock Museum members will be able to see "Gridiron Glory" during a kick-off preview party September 24, 2015 featuring a performance by Austin's John H. Reagan High School band and with special Texas guests from the NFL Alumni Association and members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Related programs and films for all ages will be held throughout the run of the exhibition, including the Museum’s popular Free First Sundays, lectures and discussions, trivia nights, and hands-on workshops. 

For details, including hours of exhibition, ticket prices, and options for group events and buyouts, visit TheStoryofTexas.com. 

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​​The Bullock Texas State History Museum, a division of the State Preservation Board and an accredited institution of the American Alliance of Museums, creates experiences that educate, engage, and encourage a deeper understanding of Texas. With dynamic, award-winning exhibitions that illuminate Texas history, people, and culture, educational programming for all ages, and an IMAX® theater with a screen the size of Texas, the Museum collaborates with more than 700 museums, libraries, archives, organizations, and individuals across the world to bring the Story of Texas to life. For more information, visit www.TheStoryofTexas.com or call (866)369-7108.