T-Shirt
Object number2023.2.1
Date1972
MediumCotton; Fabric
Credit LineGift of Jack Anthony Porreca
DescriptionYouth-size off-white cotton short-sleeve t-shirt. Crew neck. Front of chest has black text with Italian flag shield behind; shield has black outline with three vertical stripes, from viewer's left to right: green, off-white, and red.DimensionsHeight x Width: 23.125 x 29.25 in. (58.7 x 74.3 cm)InscriptionsFront of chest has black printed text "FRANCO'S / ITALIAN / ARMY".
Historical NotesThis well-worn and well-loved Franco’s Italian Army t-shirt belonged to Jack Porreca, then in the 9th grade at North Catholic High School. Porreca was one of many Steelers fans descended from Italian immigrants that joined Franco’s Italian Army in the 1972 football season. While he didn’t attend the game on December 23, 1972, he attended the pep rally led by Franco’s Italian Army Generals Al Vento and Tony Stagno the night before the game in Market Square (which concluded at the Hilton Hotel where the Oakland Raiders were staying). Riding high after the Immaculate Reception and playoff game win, Porreca asked his mother if he could wear his Franco’s Italian Army shirt to Christmas dinner at his Aunt Jean’s home. She said “no,” but allowed him to take a photo with his Franco’s Italian Army flag and bandana at the holiday gathering.
Related institution
Franco's Italian Army
Related person
Franco Harris
(1950 - 2022)
Previous owner
Jack Anthony Porreca
Related institution
Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School
Related institution
Pittsburgh Steelers
Related person
Albert Vento Sr.
Related person
Tony Stagno
On View
Not on view
