St Helen’s ArchivePreserving the past for the future

MP1852

Tissue Souvenir

CIC

Swansea RFC

1899-1900

Printed tissue match souvenir, England v Wales at Gloucester 1900. Dimensions: 12 3/4" x 13 3/4" (32.9cm x 34.9cm).

A printed tissue paper souvenir sold on match day at the Kingsholm ground of Gloucester Rugby club on the occasion of the England v Wales rugby match played there on 6th January 1900. The date is marked although the year has been hand written in. There is a faded but legible signature of W.J. ("Billy") Bancroft under the printed information. The souvenir shows both teams in their playing positions and their home clubs. There is a 'pen sketch' of Billy Bancroft of Swansea, who was the Wales captain that day. There is also recorded the age, height and weight of each player on the two teams. These souvenirs were mass produced to be sold to supporters as they travelled to the match venue. They were not intended as long term keepsakes and it is unusual to see one surviving in good enough condition to be legible. There may have been other player signatures on the top of the piece but if so they have faded to just a few marks. Wales won the match by 13 - 3 (2 converted tries and a penalty to a single try). This match is generally regarded as marking the beginning of Wales' first 'Golden Era' (1900-1911). Five Swansea players were in the Welsh team. Bancroft was winning the 28th of 33 consecutive caps. Backs Dan Rees, George Davies, Billy Trew and forward Bob Thomas were making their international debut. Trew scored a try and Bancroft kicked two conversions. Llwynypia player Dick Hellings scored the other try and played the second half with a fractured arm.

tissue souvenir