Recently I wrote about correspondence received concerning a Victorian club member called Jack Thompson. Research shows that he was an important organiser of events both before and after the club moved to Ashbrooke in 1887. Newspaper reports reveal that he played cricket for Sunderland in his youth ( although the games covered indicate that he was no Ben Stokes). During the 1870s and 1880s when Sunderland Cricket and Football Club (as it came to be known) operated at Holmeside and later on Chester Road there were annual Whit Sports. The money made from these sports kept the club afloat for the year so were considered of great importance. Jack was the chief organiser in the 1880s and, as a result of his efforts, was presented with a fine silver plate in 1884. This plate is engraved with the names of all the good and great of the club - most of whom appear in biographies in the recently published 150th anniversary history of the rugby club. One of Jack's ancestors, now in London, contacted the club and forwarded a number of interesting photographs which will feature in future articles. The plate pictured here is currently with a branch of the family in South Africa. More of interest soon so watch this space. For the anniversary booklet (£5 to Rugby Club funds) ask at the bar.
Comments