Resource The NMFC History thread

[Teffy]

I'm going to update this thread as I come across things. Perhaps the mods could consider a sticky and I invite others to add contributions.

This article deals with the historic re-naming of the club back to North Melbourne back in 1888.

I have also stumbled across evidence of North back to back reserves premiership sides in 1886-1887.

There's also good info on our first Tassie involvement in 1887.

North Melbourne Football Club. The above held their annual meeting in the U.F.S. Hall on Friday evening, Mr. Mark Evans presiding. Mr. Munro, secro tary, having read the minutes of the last meeting, the following report was sub omitted : Your Committee beg to submit the annual report for the season 1887. Your first twenty played 26 matches, including intercolonial and country, of which 8 were won, 12 lost, and 6 drawn, 100 goals were kicked for the club and 106; against, being not nearly such a good record as for the previous season. The most prominent goal-kickers were Messrs. Houston, Carroll, Todd, Christian, Bradley, and Abrahams.

110 goals to 106 goals. There must have been a few close losses. 1887 seems very similiar to 2011.

Your Committee arranged a series of matches with Tasmanian inter colonial teams in addition to country trips, which, though highly successful from a social point of view, were not a monetary success, the expenses incurred being very heavy. The Tasmanian trip resulted in a great loss. Your team received the utmost hospitality in Tasmania fronm the Southern Football Association, who could not apparently treat them too well; and the players are to be complimented on their very fine behaviour when away, obtaining most flatter ing notices in the Tasmanian press and the country districts they visited, as well as receiving pressing invitations to renew their visits this season.

1887 Tassie Trip.

Your second twenty again achieved the proud position of premiers, and have to be congratulated on the unselfish manner in which they played together, show that united is far superior to individual effort.

The North team ethic was on display 124 years ago.

They were aware that the name of the town had been changed from Hotham to North Melbourne, and it was only right that the football club should follow suit. (Hear, hear.) Perhaps someone present would move in the matter. On the motion of Mr. Sutcliffe, it was then unanimously decided that the club be henceforth known as the North Melbourne Football Club.

Mr Sutcliffe, whoever you are, god bless you.

The presentations were then made by the chairman, as follows :-Messrs Houston, best all round play, a watch ; Sykes, locket ; Abrahmes,albert chain (presented by Mr. Gardiner), good all-round play; W. Johnston, gold chain, best all-round play ; Morris, cruet, playing at most number of matches (the gift of Mr. M. Evans); Alessio, regular attendance, silver watch, (the gift of Mr. M1. Evans); Carroll, biscuit barrel : Gooley, locket-club prize.

"Houston" appears to be our first recorded B&F winner.

Mr. Guest, the secretary of the second 20, was presented with the photos of the team, suitably framed, and, in returning thanks, said that the 2nd 20 North Melbourne had been the premier 2nd 20 for two years.

Back to back Hotham flags.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[Teffy]

The 1915 "Invincibles" awarded gold medals and challenge all comers:

FOOTBALL MEETING.


NORTH Melbourne
The annual meeting of the North Melbourne Football Club, last year's premiers, was held at the Loco. Picture Theatre, Victoria street, last even- ing. Councillor J. H. Gardiner presided, and there was a large attendance. The report stated that the club had (gone through the season without a single defeat, and had won the pennant for (the fifth time). The balance-sheet showed a credit of £5/10/C. Mr. Aikman, M.L.C., presented the pennant on behalf of the V.F.A., amidst aplause, and handed gold medals to the 20 players who comprised the team. On behalf of the club he offered that it would play any other club, League or association, in aid of the patriotic funds.

 

[Devil Fish]

Any idea how that elephant made it's way onto Aegius Park in the 1970's there boss?
And any thoughts on what caused that gas bottle explosion and subsequent fire at the same ground in the early 1980's?

 

[Teffy]

I'll get back to you on those ones DF.

Was North at Arden Street prior to 1882?

NORTH MELBOURNE RIGHTS Date Back to 1879

Particularly Interesting in view of the fact that it is now Involved In the dispute is a document which the North Melbourne Football Club has unearthed giving it control of the ground. This was signed in 1879 by the secretary of the North Melbourne (then Hotham) Cricket Club.

The document has been in possession of Alderman J. H. Gardener who at the time of its signature was treasurer of the North Melbourne (then also Hotham) Football Club and is a receipt acknowledging the payment by thefootball club of the cricket club s debts amounting to £83 In consideration of which the cricket club ceded to the football club all Its right title and Interest In the ground.

The payment was made by the football club Alderman Gardener said to prevent the Government stepping in and taking control of the ground However the matter did not end there for the cricket club tried to go back on Its bargain and the matter was brought to court when the football club was awarded £150 damages because the cricket club relused to allow It to hold a cycling meeting there The case was decided By Sir Isaac Isaacs The title to the ground Alderman Gardener says Is now held bv the Melbourne City Council which obtained it from the then operating North Melbourne Council when it was absorbed.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[Teffy]

The 1915 invincibles challenge the VFL premiers to a match:

NORTH MELBOURNE CHALLENGE.


The North Melbourne team, minor premiers of the Victorian Football Association are anxious to play a game against the premier of the league. They propose that the game shall be played on any ground the league select though they are prepared to give their own ground free of cost. They are willing, in order that there may be no league objection, that the game should be played under league rules with 18 men a side and with kicking in the ruck allowed. The only stipulation is that the whole of the proceeds shall be devoted to patriotic funds This seems to be a golden opportunity to let the football public provide a big gate for patriotic purposes for it is certain that no other gime in the present juncture would arouse so much interest. The North Melbourne delegate will at the next meeting of the association ask for permission to play the match.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[Teffy]

A picture of Hothams 1878 ruckman, Charles Warner (aged 93) with North captain Les Foote, taken in 1949.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[Twinkletoes]

Perhaps the mods could consider a sticky and I invite others to add contributions.

Once the season's done we can, as the votes thread will be unstickied, creating some space for this thread's light reading over the preseason. You'll have to remind us though. Good idea for a thread anyway.

 

[Teffy]

Righto TT.

Hows the picture of the old bloke? Amazing.

Anyway, moving on, The first North Grog Squad circa 1899: "The Crutchy Push"

A DISGRACEFUL SCENE

During the half-time interval in the Footscray v. North Melbourne match, a gang of North Melbourne roughs, several of whom are cripples, known as the "Crutchy Push," wearing belltoppers, with blue and white streamers, attempted to rush the reserve. These larrikins, after parading the ground, attempted to scale the fence, and were promptly ejected by the police, but not before several blows were struck. For some minutes a free fight seemed imminent, but the police were too strong. The gatekeeper, A. Lee, was very roughly handled by the roughs before the police could eject them. It was significant that, after half-time, two mounted troopers patrolled inside the playing space, and there was no further trouble.


http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[Twinkletoes]

Hows the picture of the old bloke? Amazing.

Yep, and to think what he's seen in his life, being 93 in 1949. I hope he made it through to October 1950 at the very least.

 

[schramho]

Love the idea of this thread Teffy! I've always been a history fan and I find it fascinating to see North right back at the beginning with founder Mr. JH Gardiner. I'll be following this thread closely!

 

[Teffy]

Jesus H. Christ, talk about history repeating:

NORTH MELBOURNE DISBANDS.

AMALGAMATION WITH ESSENDON (July 2, 1921)

At a spécial meeting of the North Melbourne committee, it was, decided that as the North Melbourne ground it had been handed over to the Essendon club by the City Council, the club should disband. The decision was reached late on Thursday night, and many of the North Melbourne players to put themselves within the permit rules which provide that no permits shall be grantcd after July 1, made out applications to transfer elsewhere. The North Melbourne delegate at the Association meeting on Monday night denied any knowledge of any arrangements between the Essendon and North Melbourne clubs, but it transpired yesterday that the Essendon committee is to make room for two North Melbourne representatives.

Strong indignation was expressed by many North Melbourne supporters, who resent the action of the committee in having decided on the disbandment of the club without consulting the members. They complained that not only has their club been broken up without their consent, but that they have paid their subscription for this season, and their tickets entitle them to admittance to ten more matches. They point out that for 58 years North Melbourne has been a senior team, and that no committee has any power to disband the club on its own initiative. It is likely that steps will be taken by North Melbourne members to call upon the committee to explain its actions.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

Back room meddling at head office and one or two vichy swine. Sound familiar anyone?

Thank god "The Roosistence" was alive and well 90 years ago.

 

[Teffy]

North Melbourne/East Fremantle historical connection.

Origin Of Port Club Colours

There is an interesting link between the North Melbourne Football Club, and East Fremantle, one of Western Australia's oldest and most successful clubs.

When East Fremantle was formed in 1898 it took its colours, blue and white, from North Melbourne, which was then a Victorian association team. East Fremantle's first captain was the late Tommy Wilson, who previously had played with North Melbourne. At his suggestion East Fremantle decided to adopt his old team's colours.

North Melbourne retains the blue and white stripes and thereby avoids too close a similarity with Geelong, whose players wear blue and white hoops. The Geelong blue, however, is a darker shade. East Fremantle has had many changes of guernsey and a couple of years ago changed from blue with white collar cuffs and monogram, to blue and white hoops similar to Geelong. East Fremantle has always been proud of its colours, in which it has built up the en viable record of 21 premierships, the most of any team in Australia.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

Spitta (an East Freo boy) was obviously destined to play at North

 

[Teffy]

I know the club is still looking to find the 1930 to 1934 best and fairest players.

1932: J.Patterson, perhaps?

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[Teffy]

Some things never change

UMPIRE RESCUED FROM ANGRY MOB. Police Action Necessary.


MELBOURNE:. July 22, 1939


A mounted trooper and six constables rescued W. Blackburn, umpire from a crowd of 500 angry spectators after Carlton. had beaten North Mel bourne, by one goal In the League football match at North Melbourne to day.

Patrons who were incensed with the decisions against North Melbourne In the last quarter Jumped the fence and surrounded Mr. . Blackburn in a menacing throng. It was one of the most hostile demonstrations accorded a League umpire for many yean. The poljce were buffeted at they shepberded Mr. Blackburn safely from the aeld to' the 'race'— a wire-netting enclosure which Is provided to protect the. umpire and- players from the crowd. After Mr. Blackburn had been taken Into tbe umpires' room, the jollce remained an duty outside, but the crowd refused to disperse, and re peated calls were made for Mr. Black burn to appear.

Mr. Blackburn was taken out of the dressing room of the stand by a back entrance. A special escort of plain clothes police was obtained; and then was placed with them In the car of Mr. Ken. Luke, the Carlton Dissident, which previously had been brought around for this, purpose. Carlton players did not leave by the usual exit door, but through the race and on to the ground.

The crowd was unaware that Mr. Blackburn had left until someone yelled out, 'There he goes,' as the car drove off.

The secretary of tbe North Mel bourne Football Club (Mr. J. Adams) (aid to-night that the club was satisfied that its team would have won the game If it had not been for the bad umpiring. They would request the League not to appoint Mr. Blackburn to any more matches at North Melbourne.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[Teffy]

The first ever game between North and Collingwood in 1892:

North Melbourne 5 goals 6 behinds.
Collingwood 1 goal 12 behinds.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[Teffy]

Proof that Caroline Wilson is a vampire and was alive in 1888.

A DISCREDITABLE GATHERING.

To THE Editor,-Sir,-I attended a meeting of the North Melbourne Football Club in the U. F. S. Hall, on the 23rd, and the gathering as a whole reflected scant credit on the town or the gamen. The building was packed mostly with young fellows ranging from mere lads, (who only came to render themselves 'a nuisance, and who were threatened with expulsion by the chairman), to young men of 25 or thereabouts. The company was very disorderly and persisted in meaning. less interruptions worthy of a number of children at a school pie nic, and several young men who volunteered songs while the scrutineers were counting up the votes were interrupted by what looked like bags of sand being thrown from the back of the stage on the platform. But the worst feature of all was the smoking and spitting, which were freely indulged in, and shortly after the meeting opened clouds of tobacco smoke filled the hall while the disgusting sounds indicative of the ejection of saliva from the mouths of the "gentlemen" present were heard on all sides. This filthy behaviour had a dangerous side to it, however, for several votaries of the weed "lit up" close to the wings of the stage, and, taking into account the inflammable material of the former, the chances of the assemblage being "purified by fire" were very con siderable. I don't know if the directors of ith hall have any idea how the building is trseated on these occasions, but the unfortunate individual upon whom de volves the task of sweeping the floor after the footballers and their "barrackers" have rendered it an object of repulsion, must have a sickening tilme of it. In fact, Sir, it seems that football, unless something is done to bring about a better state of affairs, will soon become asso ciated with larrikinism, obscenity, and a disregard of the first principles of respectabilty. Given this state of things, and the game will soon sink to the level of the rat pit of our fathers' day, and the better portion of the community will relegate it to the roughs for support. It is a great pity there slould be such a tendency in connection with football, which might be rendered a manly game, and it is a still further subject for regret that the young men of North Melbourne cannot meet together to discuss the budo. ness matters of a club in a business-like way. The fault, however, is directly that of the late committee who admitted any non member to the hall, to the exclusion of respectable members But the worst feature of the whole matter is that every hobbledehoy was presented with a ballot paper, and thus those who never paid a penny to the funds of the Club had as much say as those who contributed regularly. The management of the Club, in this respect, was, to use a vulgarism, rotten, and the late Hotham Club, so long as it is conducted under such a pernicious system will never gain respect or rise even to the position of COMMON DECENCY.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[SoggyBoy]

And any thoughts on what caused that gas bottle explosion and subsequent fire at the same ground in the early 1980's?

DF, I can tell you that my brother was working that pie stand that day.

Kids were climbing all over the back of the stand, where the gas pipes were located.

Despite his best efforts, they wouldn't get down so he went to get the manager (from the bigger pie stand under the main scoreboard, at the time.

When he returned, he saw the stand engulfed in flames.

One of the kids had knocked a pipe off it's connection and the fire started.

 

[Zondor]

Gee that Electronically Translated Text reads like it has had a night on the turps. Great to see The Zebra still in full flight.

 

[Teffy]

24 spuds, Arthur Calwell thread.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/art...=North Melbourne Football Club &searchLimits=

 

[sutcliffe's hotel]

Mr Sutcliffe, whoever you are, god bless you.

Thanks Teffy, may Carey bestow blessings on you in return.

 

[JD-Roo]

New Grandstand at North Melbourne Cricket Ground
23 November 1927
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/3893278

North Melbourne Grandstand
12 April 1928
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/37663465

 

[JD-Roo]

A Great Day for the Shinboners

13 May 1950 - looking back at June 5, 1933
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/22828779

First of the 1925 entry sides to beat Collingwood

 

[Teffy]

Good stuff JDR.

 

[Mr Reliable]

Here's a link to the Wikipedia article on Arden St, home of the NMFC.

As with all W articles it needs to be treated with a little caution until all the facts have been verified.

However, it's got a lot of good stuff in it, including references to the grandstand, the greyhound track and betting ring and the gasometers.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arden_Street_Oval#Betting_Ring

Betting Ring

The betting ring is a concreted area beneath a roof, behind the 1928 grandstand, on the corner of Arden and Fogarty streets. The betting ring was built for greyhound meetings that were held at Arden St from 1957-62. The dogs ran on a track that formed a perimeter around the cricket oval. While the betting ring was alive with punters and bookmakers, only those in the ring's top corner, at the northern end, had a view past the grandstand and across the terraces to the finishing line. Since the demise of greyhound racing at Arden Street, the betting ring has served as a car park and equipment shelter. Much of the area was taken up by the Bob Dempster Memorial Nets, which were built on the oval in 1975, before being shifted to the corner of the betting ring closest to the intersection of Arden and Fogarty streets. furniture.[2]

In 2006, the betting ring was destroyed in an arson attack

 

[Kanga3220]

"shovels to shovels and picks to picks;on the North Melbourne ground you stick like s**t
Get up you dirty mug or we"ll hit you with a brick"

An old verse from our theme song!!!!