Object Details
referenced
Bryant, Paul W.
Description (Brief)
This was the game ball used to put Paul “Bear” Bryant into College Football’s Winningest Coach category. Beating 314 wins previously set by Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg of the University of Chicago, Bryant coached Alabama to a 28 to 17 victory over Auburn on November 28, 1981. The ball was painted by Alabama artist Don Barnes and given to Senator Howell Heflin, a huge supporter and friend of Bear Bryant’s. In turn, Senator Heflin donated the ball to the Smithsonian so that others may enjoy the rich history and proud accomplishment of one of the greatest college football coaches of all time. Although Bryant’s record has since been broken, his coaching legend will live on, especially through the fans of the University of Alabama.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Senator Howell Heflin
Date made
1981
ID Number
1997.0337.01
accession number
1997.0337
catalog number
1997.0337.01
Object Name
football
Physical Description
paint (overall material)
leather (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 28.4 cm x 13.2 cm x 15.7 cm; 11 3/16 in x 5 3/16 in x 6 3/16 in
See more items in
Culture and the Arts: Sport and Leisure
Data Source
National Museum of American History
web subject
Sports
name of sport
Football
level of sport
collegiate
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1270834