In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the most memorable play in NFL history, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Senator John Heinz History Center, in conjunction with Allegheny Technologies Incorporated (ATI), will be unveiling an "Immaculate Reception" monument near Heinz Field, it was announced today.
The monument will be unveiled at a special ceremony on Saturday, December 22, the day prior to the 40th anniversary of the play and the Steelers game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Heinz Field. The unveiling will take place at the actual site of the "Immaculate Reception," which is located between Heinz Field and Stage AE.
"This year marks the 40th anniversary of the 'Immaculate Reception' and it will forever have a place in all of our memories," Steelers President Art Rooney II said. "Over the years I have had many fans tell me we should do something to commemorate the exact location of Franco Harris' catch. I am glad we are finally able to get this done with the help of the Heinz History Center and ATI."
"Forty years ago, the greatest play in the annals of the NFL helped to shape the Steelers franchise," said Andy Masich, president and CEO of the Heinz History Center. "The 'Immaculate Reception' made history, and now the Steelers Nation can help commemorate the moment—and the exact location—by donating to the special Immaculate Reception monument fund."
In conjunction with the Steelers' 80th season celebration and the "Year of the Fan," the team will host an event at Stage AE on Saturday, December 22, following the unveiling of the monument. The event, to be sponsored by ATI, will be open to the public and free of charge. Also, on Sunday, December 23, which is the actual anniversary of the "Immaculate Reception," the Steelers will salute Harris and his teammates at halftime of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Additionally, the Steelers and the Heinz History Center will be running a fundraising campaign that will give fans an opportunity to commemorate the play with "Immaculate Reception" collectibles. For more information, fans are encouraged to visit http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/ to learn how to participate in the campaign. Portions of the proceeds will go to the Heinz History Center.
The official monument will be presented by ATI, and it will be sculpted and cast in bronze by Matthews International.
