Texas A&M football exhibit premieres at Bush Library

Former Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel gifted a signed helmet and football to former President George H.W. Bush. The items are now part of an exhibit at the Bush Library and Museum dedicated to the history of A&M football.

Former Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel's Pro Day in 2013 attracted a crowd of people, including former President George H.W. Bush. Years later, Manziel visited the late President at his library and museum on A&M's campus, where he presented Bush with a signed helmet and football. These items are now on display in an exhibit dedicated to the history of A&M football at the Bush Library and Museum. The exhibit, titled "A Spirit Can Ne'er Be Told... A Century of Aggie Football," offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of Texas A&M football, featuring over 100 original artifacts from lenders across the country. The exhibit covers various aspects of A&M football, including its origins, notable players and coaches, traditions, and memorable games. Interactive displays highlight key moments in the team's history, such as the birth of the 12th Man tradition and Manziel's victory over Alabama on his way to winning the Heisman Trophy. The exhibit aims to capture the spirit and loyalty of Aggieland, showcasing what sets the university apart from others. The project took three years to complete, with research beginning in 2020. Despite delays caused by the pandemic, the exhibit was finally installed and opened to the public in 2023. The collaboration between the Bush Library, A&M's athletic department, the A&M Letterman's Association, and the Sanders Corps of Cadets Center played a crucial role in obtaining the artifacts and creating the exhibit. The exhibit's completion coincides with the start of A&M's 2023 football season, and it is expected to attract visitors throughout the fall. The goal is for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the shared history and unsung heroes of A&M football.