This image is Fred Alderson (1867 – 1925) is seen here in his England Cap, awarded against Wales in 1891, he went on to Captain the England side, became a founder of the Barbarians Rugby side, and played for Durham on 18 occasions. After winning his Blue at Cambridge he came to Hartlepool joining Hartlepool Rovers and to become a Master at Henry Smith School, later becoming Headmaster.
Date (of image) : 1893
Donor : Stuart Quinn
Creator : J Baines Manningham Bradford
Part of the "Stuart Quinn" collection
Location
Formed in 1890, the Barbarians Club is one of the most famous names in World Rugby, and Rovers provided the first ever opposition on 27th December, 1890. Originally restricted in membership to Oxbridge players and Internationals it soon widened its remit and a call up to the Club still remains a great honour for any player. Games against Rovers were a feature of the side until 1902 when they played Rovers on the 5th April drawing 3 all and then on the following Monday, West beat them in their only game with the West Club, by 25 pts to 4. The tours to the North only lasted 12 years but also included matches with Old Dunelmians, South Shields (both now defunct), Percy Park, and Rockcliffe (now Whitley Bay Rockcliff)
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