Bristol Rovers Virtual Museum

In a letter to the editor of the Bristol Mercury and Daily Post in November 1883, the writer bemoaned the fact that one hears nothing but Rugby Union matches. He went on to say that in a large city the size of Bristol, there must be many who prefer the Association game, so why does Bristol not have a club of its own.

The writer’s question was answered as five young teachers had only met a month earlier in the Eastville Restaurant in Stapleton to form what would be the Black Arabs football club, its name taken after a rugby team who played nearby.

This story and many others are vividly told in the now published book ‘The Formative Years’ by long-time Rovers’ supporter, Eric Whitlock and the photos on this page are reflected along with many others in the book.

We highly recommend Eric’s book to Rovers’ fans and to all football historians. You can by it at a cost of £25.00 either from the Rovers Supporters’ Club cabin on matchdays or by writing to Ericmwhitlock@outlook.com or Suzyharrington70@gmail.com