Art Rooney

Art Rooney was born, raised and died in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and was the founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise in the National Football League (NFL). Rooney was one of the city's favorite residents until his death in 1988. Rooney's son Dan Rooney is the current owner of the Steelers.

Fast Facts

1. Born: January 27, 1901
2. Died: August 25, 1988
3. Known by many as "The Chief"
4. Won the money to start the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise at a horse track
5. Handed franchise down to his son Dan Rooney who handed it down to his son Art Rooney II
6. Named in the top 100 most influential sports figures by The Sporting News
7. A statue of Art Rooney stands in the entrance to Heinz Field

Founding of the Steelers

Rooney was a life-long resident of Pittsburgh and attended Duquesne University In 1933, Rooney paid the $2,500 franchise fee to start an NFL team. The NFL reportedly was looking to bring a team to Pittsburgh because of the city's strong affiliation with the game. Rooney founded the Steelers in 1933 after Pennsylvania relaxed the state's Blue Laws, which prohibited the exhibition of sporting events on Sundays. Under Rooney's guidance, the Steelers became one of the league's most storied franchises.

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