St Helen’s ArchivePreserving the past for the future

PH261

Photograph

CIC

David Dow

1901-1902

Photographs reproduced in newspaper, B&W. Three annotated action images from Devonport Albion v Swansea in 1902. Published in "Black And White Budget" magazine April 5th 1902 p57. Dimensions: w 10 1/2" x h7" (w26.6cm x h18.9cm).

This set of three images was printed in the 5th April 1902 edition of the popular Victorian magazine "Black And White Budget". The magazine style newspaper was a weekly which sold for twopence and, as such was very popular with those who didn't normally buy a newspaper. It ran from 1899 under various titles, until 1912 when it was merged with "The Sphere". The match featured in this edition was that between Swansea RFC and Devonport Albion. The Devonport side was at this time the sternest English opposition played by Swansea, who were in the middle of a 'Golden Era'. Swansea retained their title of Welsh Champions in 1901-02, playing 32 matches and winning 25, drawing two and losing just three, this result being the third and last defeat of the season. Devonport Albion won by 10 points to 4 (2 converted tries to a drop-goal). The local press in Plymouth billed the visit of the 'All Whites' to Devonport thus: "A team who have beaten all comers. Perfectly trained. Scientifically gifted. Combination irreproachable. The greatest team on earth." The home team however, put in a magnificent performance to beat the Welsh Champions, playing part of the game with 14 men as Peard retired during the second-half with a broken rib. Billy Bancroft acted as a Touch Judge in this match.

1901-1902, Devonport Albion, Swansea Tour