As they say, it's not just a game.

The third annual Armstrong Walker Football Classic Legacy Project (AWFCLP) is kicking off a six-week celebration with a new exhibit at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. “The Legacy and Soul of Our Community: 40 Years of the Armstrong Walker Classic” will feature memorabilia and artifacts from the legendary, longstanding local high school football rivalry (1938 – 1978) between Armstrong and Maggie Walker high schools, one of the greatest in the country.

There will be an opening reception at the BHMCCV on Wednesday, Oct. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. and the exhibition will be running through Nov. 22.

The artifacts on loan will include photos and films that span the 40-year history of the rivalry between the two schools, which broke attendance records with crowds of upwards of 40,000 people at City Stadium, according to organizers. Richmond Public School students will be provided with special opportunities to visit the exhibit and learn more about local Black history.

“As we continue to build on this legacy, the Armstrong Walker Football Classic Legacy Project team is excited to partner again with the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia (BHMVA) to be able to share these priceless pieces of our history,” said AWFCLP President Greta Randolph stated in a press release. Support for the exhibit and project was provided by the City of Richmond, Richmond Grand Resort and Casino, Virginia Credit Union and the Black History Museum of Virginia.

As the website notes: "The beauty of this project is the two high school’s alumni are working together, engaging the City of Richmond’s youth through the Richmond Public Schools and the Department of Parks and Recreation."

As far as other events, those take place Thanksgiving weekend: Friday, Nov. 24 is the hall of fame banquet; the parade takes place on Saturday, Nov. 25 at 10 a.m. with the game and tailgate at Bon Secours Training Center from noon to 5 p.m.; and there will be an hour of power on Sunday, Nov. 26 at Armstrong High School at 10 a.m.

For more information visit here and here.