Fort Payne Opera House

Historical marker location:

Fort Payne, Alabama

( Marker is at the intersection of Gault Avenue North (U.S. 11) and 5th Street Northtwest, on the right when traveling west on Gault Avenue North.)

Marker installed: 1973

architecture houses residential buildings

The University of Alabama was the site of one of the most dramatic moments in college football history. In 1970, legendary Alabama head coach Bear Bryant walked onto the field during a game against Southern California and ordered his team to remove their helmets as a sign of respect for the recent passing of USC's coach.