Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts and a Chicago native, has a huge collection of legendary memorabilia from rock music, American history and pop culture. Last Tuesday, for one night only, the Jim Irsay Collection was on display at Chicago’s Navy Pier.
Photo Credit Matt Bowen / Indianapolis Colts
Valued at nearly $100 million, the collection includes sports and music items, pop culture collectibles and historical artifacts. Among the many pieces are John Lennon’s sunglasses; President John F. Kennedy’s rocking chair, hat and cigar box; a $10,000 1934 Federal Reserve note; Elton John’s piano; Muhammad Ali’s boxing robe; the Beatles breakup affidavit; and much more. Everywhere I looked was an amazing piece of history. There’s an original “Wanted” poster for John Wilkes Booth, but the oldest piece is a 1765 lottery ticket benefitting the rebuild of Faneuil Hall in Boston.
Photo Credit Matt Bowen / Indianapolis Colts
Musical entertainment was provided by Jim Irsay Band, with special guest Ann Wilson of Heart. This performance was worthy of a main stage anywhere.
Photo Credit Matt Bowen / Indianapolis Colts
Prior to Chicago, the tour stopped in New York; Los Angeles; Nashville; Washington, D.C.; and Austin. Next up is Indianapolis, which will feature rare items from the Baltimore and Indianapolis Colts. Colts Hall of Famer Edgerrin James and the gold Hall of Fame Chevrolet Caprice Convertible Irsay gave him upon his induction will be a featured attraction.
Photo Credit Matt Bowen / Indianapolis Colts
Because the collection spans so many genres, it attracts a wide variety of fans. My only minor complaint about the night was the number of items made it difficult to see it all, but we did a great job getting to everything.
Photo Credit Matt Bowen / Indianapolis Colts
— John Wroblewski, online writer
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