For Ryan Jones, curating the Southern Heritage Classic exhibit at the National Civil Rights Museum was more than a job — it was a privilege, a throwback to his childhood.
Jones, a Memphis native, remembers attending his first Southern Heritage Classic in 1997 as a young drummer, captivated by the halftime show’s energy. Now, as the Director of History Interpretation at the museum, he has taken on the task of preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of the Classic, a Memphis institution for 35 years.
“I grew up attending the Classic, and to now be in a position where I can help tell its story—this is a moment of pride for me,” Jones said. “The Southern Heritage Classic is about more than just a football game. It’s a celebration of Black joy, Black excellence, and the unique culture of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).”
The exhibit, titled The Southern Heritage Classic: Celebrating 35 Years of an HBCU Memphis Tradition, showcases a collection of memorabilia, artifacts, and stories tracing the event’s growth from its humble beginnings to its current status as a major celebration of HBCU sports, culture, and community.
The installation is particularly meaningful, as both the Classic and the museum share a connection beyond geography—they were both founded in 1991, and have since grown into iconic institutions that help shape the identity of Memphis. The exhibit will remain open through Black History Month, ending in February 2025.
Fred Jones, the founder of the Southern Heritage Classic, credited his publicist Jae Henderson for sparking the idea of creating the exhibit to mark the Classic’s 35th anniversary.
“We were brainstorming ideas, and Jae Henderson suggested this exhibit,” Jones recalled. “Sometimes ideas come and go, but this one worked from the beginning. When I heard it was going to be at the National Civil Rights Museum, I thought, ‘Wow, really?’ It was the perfect fit.”
But even though he combed through the archives to help it come to life, Jones deliberately stayed away. “I didn’t want to see it until it was done,” he said. “I wanted to experience it just like everyone else.”
That changed on Sept. 6 when Jones saw the installation for the first time during a special media preview.
“When I walked through the door, I just said, ‘Wow,’” Jones said. “Seeing these five schools represented and the history of the Classic on display at the National Civil Rights Museum is an honor. It’s an emotional moment for me.”
At the center of the exhibit are displays highlighting the participating HBCUs — and not just relative newcomer University of Pine Bluff-Arkansas, and recent rival Jackson State either. Grambling State University, Mississippi Valley State University and Alabama State University. That includes not just football uniforms but band uniforms as well, to honor the legendary halftime performances.
The exhibit is noisy too, with video and audio of band performances plays, as well montages of the music all-stars who have performed, like Frankie Beverly and Maze, Jeffrey Osborne, Patti Labelle and more.
Dr. Russ Wigginton, president of the National Civil Rights Museum, emphasized the exhibit’s power to introduce new audiences to the significance of HBCU culture.
“Most people who come here don’t know the full history of the Civil Rights Movement, or the role African Americans have played in shaping U.S. history. This exhibit will be a revelation to many,” said Wigginton. “While it might seem like it’s just about football on the surface, it’s much deeper. The Southern Heritage Classic represents a cultural immersion that highlights Black joy, excellence, and resilience.”
Fred Jones echoed this sentiment, recalling how HBCU culture has always reached beyond regional borders. “One year, we even had people from Australia come to the tailgate,” Jones said. “The Classic has an international presence, and this exhibit will help more people understand the rich history behind HBCUs and their influence on Black culture.”
The Southern Heritage Classic has long been more than a sporting event. Each year, it attracts tens of thousands of fans from across the country, who come not just for the football but for a weekend filled with entertainment, fellowship, and the pride of HBCU traditions. Now, with the exhibit at the museum, that legacy will be preserved and shared with a global audience, many of whom may be discovering HBCU culture for the first time.
Dr. Wigginton sees the exhibit as an opportunity to deepen visitors’ understanding.
“The Southern Heritage Classic and the National Civil Rights Museum both reflect the spirit of community and education. By featuring the Classic here, we’re showing people from around the world how HBCU culture and sports have played a pivotal role in shaping African American history.”
As visitors walk through the exhibit, Jones hopes they will see a piece of themselves in the stories told.
“Whether you’re an alum of one of these institutions, a fan of the bands, or someone who’s been part of the tailgating tradition, there’s something here for everyone,” Jones said. “This is a celebration of our past, present, and future.”
