Knute Rockne Tribute

[Oldtix]

Originally Posted by CarltonHendricks

I have this one paperbound booklet thing that sensationalizes the plane crash he was killed in, by claiming it was mysterious or something...I'd have to dig it out but point is, all this stuff show how popular he was.

I think this is the booklet Carlton is referencing. It's a hilarious read...raising all sorts of questions about the cause of the wreck. After providing lurid descriptions of the crash scene and the condition of Rockne's body, it finally builds to the this thrilling climax:

"In gathering all the comments upon this tragic accident, the author of this book has talked with scores of fliers, eyewitnesses and investigators.

Two causes for the plane wreck have never even been mentioned in the public press, yet men versed in flying all over this country are discussing -- NOT FOR PUBLICATION -- their real, secret opinions...

They say that either the plane was unfit to fly and that weakened parts gave way without warning, to send the plane plunging in its death dive, or ---

The plane had been deliberately tampered with so that it would lose part of its wing!"

It goes on to say that since the plane was less than two years old with a relatively small number of flying hours, then "only one explanation remains: Someone tampered with the plane!"

"The reader is left to judge for himself."

I imagine most of them judged they'd wasted a quarter.

The 32-page booklet is filled with many unusual photos of the crash site and the funeral and a summary of Rockne's career. Well worth the quarter today!

[ksfarmboy]

I've been a Rockne and ND fame since I was a kid. I read a book on his life in grade school and became an instant admirer. He was more than just a great coach and if you get the chance read a bio of him.

I don't really collect Rockne items but my first major football card purchase was his 55 Topps All American card in the 70's for $5. I also have one other item that will never leave my collection. It's a piece from the crash. My dad and I stumbled upon it at an auction. It's a great reminder of that tragic day in Kansas when a great coach and man died.

Here's a report on the accident.
http://www.irishlegends.com/Pages/re...lections5.html