"I believe in Pittsburgh the powerful."
It's a simple start, but a proud start, a strong start, to a creed that was written over 100 years ago. But even when you read it now, when you listen to it, when you feel it, you know it still stands true today.
And you also know, the words to this gem, known as the 'Pittsburgher's Creed,' is also what the Steelers are all about.
The 'Pittsburgher's Creed,' a love letter to Pittsburgh written by James G. Connell Jr. in 1912 was published in the Gazette Times. It appeared to just be a random submission from a Pittsburgh resident. But its lore has grown, and the creed is something that is still popular today, while at the same time being something many have never heard.
That is all changing.
The opening for the scoreboard at Heinz Field before every Steelers game will now feature an adaptation of the 'Pittsburgher's Creed,' as part of a video narrated by actor Michael Keaton, a Pittsburgher himself. It takes you on a ride through the history of the Steelers, from the past to today, and highlights the city the creed shares its passion for.
It's Pittsburgh. It's what the city is about.
The Pittsburgher's Creed
"I believe in Pittsburgh the powerful — the progressive. I believe in the past of Pittsburgh and in the future founded on the heritage of that past; of clean living, frugal, industrious men and women of poise, power, purity, genius and courage. I believe that her dominant spirit is, has been, and always will be for uplift and betterment. I believe that my neighbor stands for the same faith in Pittsburgh, altho his expression may vary from mine. I believe in Pittsburgh of the present, and her people — possessing the virtues of all nations — fused thru the melting pot to a greater potency for good. I believe in taking pride in our city, its institutions, its people, its habits.
I believe in the great plans born of initiative, foresight, and civic patriotism in the minds of the great men of to-day; here — now. I believe that the Pittsburgers who truly represent her are those of God fearing lives, scorning ostentation and the seats of the ungodly; building surely, quietly and permanently.
I believe that those who know Pittsburgh love her, "her rocks and rills, and templed hills." I believe that Pittsburgh's mighty forces are reproduced in a mighty people, staunch like the hills –true like steel."
You too, likely, now "Believe in Pittsburgh the powerful."
