Special Exhibit – Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame

The History of the Helmet

Since George Barclay first developed his “head harness” in 1896, the football helmet has gone through many changes. Although protective pads for the shins, shoulders and hips were regarded as essential since the early days of the game, helmets were not a mandatory piece of equipment in the NFL until 1943. The helmet, once a thin, leather piece that offered little real protection, has evolved into a high-tech,plastic piece of equipment designed to protect a player.

Did You Know … ?

Chicago Bears end, Bill Hewitt, played all but one season of his Hall of Fame career without a helmet.

The last known player to play without a helmet ease lineman Dick Plasman of the Chicago Bears. He went helmet-less from 1937 until 1941, when he enlisted in the military. Plasman played one more year after his service, but was required to wear a helmet after the gear became mandatory in 1943.

Featured Artifact – A Career Interrupted

Tony Canadeo was a versatile halfback for the Green Bay Packers. When he arrived in Green Bay in 1941, he served mainly as an understudy to veteran quarterback, Cecil Isbell. That changes in 1943 when he became the Packers No. 1 passer. His performance that year earned him All -NFL honors. In 1945, he left to serve in an Army tank unit in Europe. he resumed his football career in 1946 as a heavy-duty running back. In 1949, he became only the third player to rush for more than 1,000 yards in a season. On display in the exhibit is Canadeo’s helmet from his rookie season (not a required piece of equipment at that time).

Featured Artifact – Hall of Famer Doug Atkins’ Saints Helmet

Across the exhibit from Tony Canadeo’s helmet is Doug Atkin’s helmet form the New Orleans Saints. The Saints were hoping for one good year from the 6-8, 275-pound Doug Atkins when they acquired him from the Chicago Bears in their inaugural season in 1967. Instead the devastating defensive end gave them three superb seasons before ending his 17-year career in 1969.