School-boy football team; Landry in the center of the middle row.

Tom Landry (1924–2000) led an illustrious life in the world of football. An all-around athlete from an early age, he began playing as a youth in his hometown of Mission, Texas, and later became quarterback at Mission High School.

In 1946, after serving in the United States Army Air Corps, Landry attended the University of Texas and joined the football team. He played fullback, defensive back, and punter on the bowl-winning 1947 and 1948 teams. He was later drafted by the New York Yankees of the All-America Football Conference. After one year, the team folded, and Landry joined the New York Giants of the National Football League. After retiring as a player with the Giants, he became defensive coordinator for the team, a position he held until 1959.

In 1959, Landry became the first head coach of the newly established Dallas Cowboys. Over a 29-year career (1960–1988), he achieved 20 consecutive winning seasons (1966–1985). As head coach, he led the team to two Super Bowl championships, five NFC titles, and 13 division titles, many of them during the team’s years at Texas Stadium in Irving.

This exhibit presents photographs from Landry’s life in football, from his early years in Mission, Texas, to his college career at the University of Texas and his professional career with the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys. Together, these images trace the arc of a career defined by discipline, leadership, and a lasting impact on the game of football.

On view through August 9, 2026.