Oldham RLFC
by Brian Walker

Oldham's Arthur Lees - played half-back for Lancashire County before and after the formation of the Northern Union in 1895.

The terrific work of the Oldham Rugby League Heritage Trust continues with the release of this interesting pictorial history book of the club.

Researched and written by the Trust's Brian Walker, Oldham RLFC is a wonderfully surprising feast of rugby league history - and not just Oldham.

Part of Tempus Publishing Ltd’s ‘Images of Sport’ series, this book contains more than 200 black and white photographs. Most are from the Trust's archives, but a few gems have been sourced from other collections.

Each of the photographs includes relevant and detailed text, so that by the end of the book the more than 120 years history of the Oldham club is told.

Like many of England's first rugby league clubs (1895), Oldham began its life decades earlier playing under rugby union rules. Oldham were a powerful side in the initial years of the Northern Union, becoming the first Lancashire club to win the coveted Challenge Cup (defeating Hunslet in 1899).

Of particular interest to Australian fans is the appearance of photos of the 1908 Kangaroos jersey badge and Tom McCabe wearing the team's jersey. Also featured are 'Oldham Aussies' George Anlezark and Viv Farnsworth. One photo also displays the club's collection of (four) Kangaroo jerseys, presented by various Australian team managers to the club after tour matches. Photographs relating to Lions tours to Australia are also scattered through the pages.

The Oldham Rugby League Heritage Trust (all volunteers) are to be congratulated for their ongoing work - much of the profits from previous publications has been donated back to the Trust and the Oldham Roughyeds club itself. They are doing remarkable work in documenting the story of professional rugby league in Oldham, and ensuring it is captured now for future generations.

Most of the top-flight clubs in England and Australia, ought to be doing likewise.

 

Product Review © Sean Fagan / RL1908

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