Commemorative

Object number2001.100.1

Contributor Myron Cope (1929 - 2008)

Date1980

MediumCotton; Polyester; Dye; Ink; Marker

Credit LineGift of Myron Cope

DescriptionRectangle cotton towel dyed a gold color. Looped pile on both faces and bound at edges with two decorative woven bands in a chevron pattern. The face is printed in black ink with Terrible Towel logo, cartoon image of fan, in oval border surrounded by black text.Dimensions0.125 x 15.5 x 25.6249 in. (0.3 x 39.4 x 65.1 cm)
SignedUpper right corner: Myron Cope
InscriptionsPittsburgh 31 Los Angeles 19 / the Terrible towel/Super Sunday, Jan. 20, 1980
MarksManufacturer's label tag sewn onto back of towel
Historical NotesThis Terrible Towel, a promotional item for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was autographed by radio broadcaster Myron Cope. It commemorated the Steeler's fourth Super Bowl victory at Super Bowl XIV on January 20, 1980.Label TextIt is so much a part of the culture of Steelers football and Pittsburgh, it’s hard to remember that once, there was no Terrible Towel. Charged by station management to find a gimmick to galvanize fans and listeners and drive advertising sponsorship for his coverage of the Steelers on WTAE Radio, Myron Cope developed the towel. Originally Cope asked fans to bring any black or gold towel to Three Rivers Stadium to wave in support of the Steelers. Fans responded by the thousands in December 1975. Blending color and motion, and seemingly imbued with special powers, the towel has become a part of the fan experience at Steelers games. Now a trademarked, merchandise item, a portion of all Terrible Towel sales benefits Allegheny Valley School.

Related institution Pittsburgh Steelers

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