The San Francisco 49ers announced plans to unveil The Edward J. DeBartolo Jr. Super Bowl Gallery at the 49ers Museum presented by Sony honoring the former owner's extraordinary achievements as the architect of the San Francisco 49ers five Super Bowl championships. Fans can get a first-look at the exhibit's exclusive content when Levi's® Stadium re-opens to the public on Monday, February 29.
"My Uncle Eddie drove the 49ers to a level of success rarely achieved by organizations in professional sports, constructing arguably the greatest dynasty in NFL history," said 49ers Chief Executive Officer Jed York. "His fingerprints are all over each of the five Super Bowl titles won by this franchise, therefore it is only fitting we celebrate his tremendous influence on our history by dedicating the 49ers Museum's Super Bowl Gallery in his honor. He was instrumental in the greatness achieved by the San Francisco 49ers and certainly deserves recognition of the highest caliber."
Though elements highlighting DeBartolo as a mentor, leader, owner and family man can be seen throughout the 49ers Museum and Levi's® Stadium, signature artifacts such as a key to the city of San Francisco – presented to DeBartolo after the 49ers first Super Bowl win in 1982 – will be made available for public viewing with the newly dedicated gallery. Additional elements include a brief narrative of DeBartolo's impact and success as told by former 49ers including QB Joe Montana, QB Steve Young and WR Jerry Rice, photographs from DeBartolo's time with the team and more.
In addition to five Super Bowl championships won under DeBartolo's leadership, the San Francisco 49ers had 16 consecutive seasons of 10 wins or more during his tenure.
In September 2015, the Pro Football Hall of Fame announced that Eddie DeBartolo Jr., a three-time finalist, was nominated as the sole candidate for the class of 2016 in the contributor category. To earn induction, DeBartolo must garner 80 percent of the final vote, which will take place on the eve of Super Bowl 50 in Santa Clara.
