In The News
Opening of Eddie G. Robinson Museum at Grambling
writes happy ending to decade-plus journey
First-class exhibit honors legendary coach
Story continued from Page 2
After relishing the success of the unexpected beginning to his museum dedication remarks, Wilbert Ellis shifted from lighthearted to heartfelt – expressing the significance of the monument that was about to open to the public for the first time.
Then it was time to see all that awaited inside the beautifully renovated former gym at 126 Jones Street, so named in honor of Ralph Waldo Emerson Jones, the visionary leader who brought Eddie Robinson to Grambling in 1941 when it was called Louisiana Negro Normal and Industrial Institute.
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| The timeline of Eddie Robinson's life begins with sharecropper parents in Jackson, Louisiana, and traces his life through his move to Baton Rouge as a little boy and on to Grambling and eventual national prominence. |
The exhibition captures the full breadth of Robinson's life, contributions and accomplishments. The presentation is first-class in every way.
A statue of Coach Rob holding a football greets visitors as they enter the main hall. When fully funded, this will be a bronze.
Behind it is a curving, illustrated timeline of Eddie's life and career, beginning with a section titled "Eddie's start in life." Every important period of his life is depicted, with fact panels, photos and illustrations.
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| A bigger-than-life likeness of "Coach Rob" greets visitors upon their arrival inside the Eddie G. Robinson Museum. |
The Locker Room Theater affords the opportunity to view game film and videos about the most famous African American football coach of all-time.
In another room plaques are displayed recognizing every one of Coach Rob's players who earned a chance to play pro football – more than 200 of them.
The Hall of Honors is devoted to the many awards and special recognition Eddie Robinson received during his illustrious 57 years at Grambling.
His home office has been recreated, and there's even an interactive area complete with an old-time blocking sled and a series of tires that "players" can high step their way through. The floor is covered with artificial turf.
The Museum also contains a banquet hall named in honor of Doris Robinson, and space for traveling exhibits.
"I prayed in a lot of situations to God," said Belton, "make this better than expected."
One of Eddie Robinson's favorite quotes seems appropriate to describe the outcome.
"If you work hard enough, dreams can come true."