The Road to the Bengals
Journey through a Century of Football Memorabilia at Behringer-Crawford Museum
Football fans, history buffs and proud locals alike are invited to explore‘The Road to the Bengals’, a unique exhibit at Behringer-Crawford Museum (BCM), celebrating the Cincinnati Bengals' storied past alongside Northern Kentucky’s rich football history.
Located on BCM’s “Roads” level, this exhibit takes visitors on a journey through time, offering an in-depth look at the evolution of the Bengals franchise and the football icons who paved the way, including the legacy of earlier professional football teams in Cincinnati before the modern Bengals were established in 1968.
Before today’s Bengals took to the field, Cincinnati was home to several earlier professional football teams. Notable among them were the Cincinnati Celts (1910-1923), the Cincinnati Reds (1933-1934), and the original Cincinnati Bengals (1937-1942), who all played critical roles in laying the groundwork for professional football in the region. The Celts, founded in 1910, were Cincinnati’s first professional team and achieved success in the Ohio League. The Cincinnati Reds, though short-lived, competed in the NFL in the early 1930s. Meanwhile, the original Bengals played at Crosley Field and Xavier University before folding in 1942 due to World War II. These teams’ contributions form the foundation of Cincinnati’s professional football history.
From local high school fields to the NFL gridiron, this exhibit connects regional legends and unforgettable Bengals moments in an exciting showcase of memorabilia.
Featured items include:
Homer Rice’s Highlands High School trophy: A tribute to the coaching legend from Bellevue, KY, who laid the foundation for successful teams at the high school and professional levels, including his tenure as head coach of the Bengals, where he helped shape future football stars.
Kenny Anderson's autographed football, cards, and jersey: Celebrating one of the greatest quarterbacks in Bengals history, showcasing his lasting impact on the franchise.
Anthony Muñoz's autographed football: Honoring the Hall of Famer and one of the most iconic offensive linemen in NFL history.
Complete set of 'Bengalies' (Topps Mexicans) cards from 1977: These rare items were made specifically for the Mexican market and printed in Spanish, adding an international flair to Bengals memorabilia.
The 1982 Super Bowl XVI Bengals vs. San Francisco 49ers 'Covington' Super Bowl special record: Featuring "The Bengals Song" by Charles Martin and performed by Bill Walters & L&M little band, commemorating the Bengals’ first Super Bowl appearance.
The exhibit also displays a wide range of Bengals memorabilia, such as Pepsi Bengals Collector Cards, autographed jerseys, signed cards and posters, football helmets, bobbleheads, buttons, a Paul Brown Football Game board game andmore!
Behringer-Crawford Museum’s ‘The Road to the Bengals’ connects the team’s legacy with its deep roots in the region, paying homage to the community’s passion for football, from the Friday night lights of high school games to the roars of the Jungle at Paycor Stadium.
“This exhibit celebrates more than just the Bengals’ journey,” said Jason French, BCM’s Curator of Collections. “It shines a light on the local football legends who helped shape the game in Northern Kentucky, creating a true ‘road’ to professional football.”
The exhibit is included with museum admission. Behringer-Crawford Museum is located in Covington’s Devou Park, 1600 Montague Rd., Covington, KY 41011. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1-5 p.m. Closed Mondays and national holidays. Admission is free for BCM members, $9 for adults, $8 for seniors 60+, $5 for children ages 3-17 and free for children two and under. Wednesdays are Grandparents Days: one grandchild is admitted free with each paying grandparent.
For more information, call 859-491-4003, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or go to www.bcmuseum.org.
Behringer-Crawford Museum is supported in part by our members, the City of Covington, Kenton County Fiscal Court, ArtsWave, Kentucky Arts Council, the Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame and The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation.