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Appleton’s History Museum at the Castle will host “Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.” The nationally traveling exhibit opens June 30 and will run through January 6, 2019. “Gridiron Glory” chronicles the history of professional football from the early 20th century to the NFL stars of today through more than 200 rare artifacts from the Hall of Fame, exclusive NFL Films footage and interactive experiences. 

Dustin Mack, chief curator at the History Museum, says visitors won’t just learn about football at “Gridiron Glory,” they will experience it. 

“Fans of all ages will be able to try on equipment, armchair referees will finally question their judgement in an instant replay interactive and visitors will be shocked to compare the size of their arms and legs to those of professional football players,” Mack says.  

Miron Construction Co., Inc., the exhibit’s lead sponsor, donated services to remodel the History Museum in preparation of the exhibit. This included the installation of a freight door that could accommodate some of the exhibit’s pieces. The Green Bay Packers sponsored the History Museum’s endeavor to bring “Gridiron Glory” to Appleton in celebration of the team’s 100th season. 

The 6,000-square-foot blockbuster exhibition will feature a customized “Hometown Tribute” area showcasing the Packer’s legendary history and players. The area will feature a game-worn Aaron Rodgers jersey, Ice Bowl artifacts and a hat worn by Mike McCarthy during Super Bowl XLV.

“The Packers, I really feel, we have many advantages as an organization, but our history and tradition is probably the thing that really sets us apart,” says Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy. “When … you see the history of some of the small town teams that fell by the wayside in the NFL, for the Packers to not only continue, but to thrive over the last century is an amazing story and I know our fans wills appreciate it.”

For more information, visit the History Museum’s website at myhistorymuseum.org.