More than eight decades of athletic memorabilia ranging from plaques, banners, trophies, and varsity jackets will now be on permanent display at the new home of the Bristol Athletic Hall of Fame, located in the Bristol State House at 240 State Street.

The Bristol Athletic Hall of Fame Committee, whose purpose is to recognize Bristolian's, past and present for their accomplishments and contributions to athletics have worked tirelessly to collect, refurbish and assemble items for the display.

"It is so nice to see this come to fruition," said Dick Sousa, Chairman of the Hall Of Fame Committee. "We are fortunate to have gained access to this place and to have it as a final resting place for these pieces of history."

The display will be open to the public at various times throughout the year and by special appointment.

Senator Chris Ottiano, who was on hand for Sunday's opening reception, says, "there is a great piece of history here and it is incredibly important to the town of Bristol."

As you look closely at many pieces of the memorabilia on display you can not help but notice the names on the trophies, jackets and photos are similar.

"This is a family oriented town and everyone has been passing their traditions along, participating in helping the next generation," he said. "There is no controversy here. This town is about family values and this collection represents part of that."