SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- A new exhibit honoring Notre Dame football legend Knute Rockne is opening this weekend at The History Museum in South Bend. The exhibit, called “Rockne: Life & Legacy,” will open Saturday. and run through May 31.
Rockne is the coach who led the Irish to their very first national championship in 1925—exactly 100 years ago. That win over Stanford in the Rose Bowl kicked off Notre Dame’s tradition of winning 11 national titles.
His life, however, was cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1931 at just 43 years old. This new museum exhibit brings fans closer than ever to his story. On display are Rockne’s personal items, including his practice whistle, letters, and even the cufflinks he wore the day of the crash.
Museum staff say the goal is not just to show old artifacts, but to connect Rockne’s story to South Bend, the region, and even America’s history.
The tribute is being called the most significant Rockne collection ever shown to the public.
ABC57 will also cover the museum's annual Spirit of Sports Awards ceremony on Sept. 19, emceed by our Kickoff host Allison Hayes.