Liner, Helmet
Object number2003.166.6
Date1970-1979
MediumCotton; Leather
Credit LineGift of Albert Vento
DescriptionDark green military-style helmet liner with painted decoration.Dimensions7 x 8.5 x 10.5 in. (17.8 x 21.6 x 26.7 cm)InscriptionsWhite handpainted text across front "FRANCO'S / ITALIAN ARMY" and across back "A. VENTO".
Historical NotesThe donor, Albert Vento, Sr., was a general in Franco's Italian Army and was the Army's co-founder. Franco’s Italian Army was a Pittsburgh Steelers fan group from the 1970s. The army originally consisted of second and third generation Italian Americans from East Liberty but quickly grew into a national phenomenon of ethnic pride. Franco Harris, a running back for the Steelers and impetus for the fan group’s creation, was of Italian and African American heritage.Label TextAs the steel industry collapsed in the 1970s, football gained importance in the region. Sports, not steel, provided the good news and a new identity for the region. Some of the most dedicated fans in that period replaced their black and gold with green, white, and red. These Italian Americans formed Franco’s Italian Army, marching onto Pittsburgh’s sports scene just as the Steelers embarked on their successful quest for four Super Bowl victories. East Liberty founders Tony Stagno and Albert Vento named the “Army” in honor of Franco Harris, the stellar running back of African American and Italian immigrant heritage. Almost immediately, they became the most recognizable fan group in Steelers history. Their military dress and boisterous stadium antics – which included clever signs, Italian flags, and lavish tailgates featuring Old World food and wine – greatly contributed to football fever during the City of Champion years.
Previous owner
Albert Vento Sr.
Related person
Franco Harris
(1950 - 2022)
Related institution
Franco's Italian Army
Related institution
Pittsburgh Steelers
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