theyflysohigh

Twelve months ago the West Ham United Football Club came into being. A palpable idea was attached to it and it rang in the ears of the West Ham sport-loving public like the old ballad of “Chevy Chase” upon those of Sir Philip Sydney, stirring their hearts as with the sound of the trumpet. Much was expected of it, and when the fever heat of enthusiasm cooled down the people realised that they had been spending their energies in a pursuit that was not in vain but consoling to the hearts of the most sanguine. The desire to have of their own a club capable of the highest quality of football was everywhere spoken of and demanded. The West Ham public had gradually become educated by a long experience of an inferior but improving class of football until a standard of excellence was established, which could only be satisfied by a team possessing merit equal to the best in the kingdom. The popular taste in football, as in other forms of sport, has changed. The play of years ago, somewhat like the pedlar’s razor – showy but useless – capable of cutting and wounding, but not of serving the particular purpose intended, has been forgotten and its existence at any time can only be excused on the ground that it was the seed from which has sprung the higher order apparent in teams like the West Ham United.
It is not given to many Clubs to mark during their first season such a marvellous prosperity as that which has attended the West Ham. The first team achieved sixth place in the Southern League, and gave most creditable performances in the English Cup ties. The reserves were equal to the best in the London League, and had the distinction of winning the fifty guinea championship challenge cup of the South Essex League.
A glance at this season’s fixtures will show the wealth of sport which has been provided, and it only remains for the Club’s supporters to do their share.
Mr. Arnold F. Hills, who has enthusiastically done so much to assist in securing the results already obtained, has, to mark his satisfaction, kindly placed the memorial Recreation Grounds, second to none in the Country, at the disposal of the Company for a further period of three years, free of rental, thus placing the team beyond any risk of difficulty with regard to suitable quarters. It is ardently hoped

H.J. Sims J.D. Smith L. Batchelor

that a hearty response will be made to the inducements provided on all sides, and that proofs having been given of the Company’s readiness to maintain the high standard of football now established, the support will be commensurate to the requirements, and that West Ham may once and for all take its place amongst the mightiest and best in the football world.
The Club is not the property, nor under the control of any individual; it is the possession of the shareholders, and so its prosperity or otherwise will be necessarily determined by the public support. The fixture list is replete, and the prices of admission will be popular. Season tickets may be had on application to the secretary.

1902 - 03 Official Handbook

In issuing their Third Handbook the Directors look back with pleasure upon the record of last season's play, and they may be pardoned for indulging in a little self satisfaction at the achievement of winning the London Championship Competition, and also obtaining fourth position in the Southern League, in the second year of the Company's existence. Such results are highly encouraging to them and to all interested in the welfare of the Company.
In engaging the team to do duty in the ensuing season the Directors have l»een guided by the experience gained in previous years, and from a glance at the names of the players, the football enthusiast will see that only first-class players of recognised ability and wide spread reputation have been engaged. Various changes from last season were necessary, new faces replace old ones, and the Directors are convinced that it is only by a progressive policy that support of the West Ham enthusiasts can be retained, and thus they have endeavoured to get together a team of players that it is to be hoped will prove equal to any, and superior to most, in the kingdom.

A perusal of the List of Fixtures will show that many attractive matches have been arranged, and it now remains for the sport-loving public of West Ham to accede that support to the Company, which is necessary to maintain a team capable of giving men high-class expositions of the game of football as they, the public, desire.

Ground Committee

T. Williamson, J.D. Smith, J.E. Reeves
G. Davis, H. Sims, J. Johnson

1903 - 04 Official Handbook

Although this Handbook has seen better days and is only a photocopy version. It still provides some great pictures from some of the early Hammers players.

However I would like to obtain a better scanned version if you can help?

64 pages:
Players featured include:-
Cotton, Griffiths, Eccles, Alec, Kay. Fair, Bigden, Watts, Allison, Blythe
Duckworth, Kirby, Lyon, Ingham, Butchart, Satterthwaite, Barnes

Mr. J. Grisdale (Chairman)

1904 - 05 Official Handbook

64 pages:
Players featured include:-
Biggar, Griffiths, Eccles, Dow, Yenson, Bigden, McAteer, Kelly, Blythe, Allan, Campbell, Grassam, Farrell, Jenkinson, Barnes, Linward, Ratcliffe

1905 - 06 Official Handbook

Can you help with any information / images for this seasons Handbook?

1906 - 07 Official Handbook

64 pages:
Players featured include:-
Stapley, Kitchen, Clark, Gardner, Wildman, Taylor, Hammond, Allison, Piercy, Blyth, Jarvis, Lindsay, Featherstone, Grassam, Bridgeman, Davidon, Watson, Blackburn, Winterhalder A.

1907 - 08 Official Handbook

Unfortunately this Handbook has lost it's outer cover

1908 - 09 Official Handbook

1909 - 10 Official Handbook

1910 - 11 Official Handbook

1911 - 12 Official Handbook

Can you help with any information / images for this seasons Handbook?

1912 - 13 Official Handbook

1913 - 14 Official Handbook

1914 - 15 Official Handbook

Please Note:
No Handbooks were produced during the 1914-18 World War One period.
It was to be another two years before the 1920-21 Official Handbook was released. Note also the 600% increase in the cover price from 1d to 6d due mainly to the paper shortage after the War.

1920 - 21 Official Handbook

1921 - 22 Official Handbook

Unfortunately this Handbook has lost it's outer cover

1922 - 23 Official Handbook

1923 - 24 Official Handbook

1924 - 25 Official Handbook

"Sports Pictures Photo Album"

HAMMERS’ CONTINENTAL TOUR
DESCRIPTION OF VISIT TO GERMANY SWITZERLAND and FRANCE

Written by Mr. A.C. Davis – Director

He writes:-
Anything that may have been in the minds of our party as to the manner in which the German people would receive us was quickly dissipated, as right from the opening of our tour in Cologne to the Friburg match there was never any sign of feeling or hostility. Everything passed off without a hitch, and the reception of our party was everywhere most cordial.
Very little external poverty was to be seen, but the wages paid are extraordinarily low, the average for both skilled men and labourers being 3s. 4d. per day. Tram-Waymen’s wages are down to 18 marks per week.
All our party were greatly struck with the cleanliness of the people, especially the children. A remarkable long programme of sight-seeing had been arranged by the officials of the various Clubs, and although the heat on most of the days was very great, the tour was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Leaving, Liverpool Street Station at 8:30 pm on May 8th, we boarded the s.s. “St. George at Harwich at 10:00 pm, in company with the Aberdeen F.C., who were travelling to North Germany.

Our party included Messrs.
J.W.Y. Cearns, W.J. Cearns, A.C. Davis, G.F. Davis, Frank Pratt, E.S. King, A. Searles, T. Hampson, W. Kaine, J. Young, W. Henderson, J. Hebden, G. Kay, J. Collins, S. Bishop, G. Carter, A. Cadwell, W. Edwards, T. Yews, V. Watson, L. Robinson, J. Campbell, W. Moore, W. Williams, J. Ruffell, and C. Paynter.

ABOARD THE LUGGER

T. Hampson W. Kaine J. Young W. Henderson J. Hebden G. Kay

After a fine sea passage we arrived at the Hook of Holland at 6:00 am. The usual Customs’ search being finished we settled down in our reserved compartments for a five hours’ journey to Cologne.

Passing through Holland one noticed the care taken with the cattle grazing in the fields, a large proportion being covered with a kind of overcoat. Queries were raised as to why this was done, Robby suggesting that it was to keep the milk hot for coffee, whilst frank Pratt was keen to know who was the tailor.
Nothing of note occurred during the remainder of the journey to Cologne, where we arrived at 1:30 pm, being met at the station by officials of the city clubs and Sergt Le Crerer, the football editor of the “Cologne Post,” which is the paper published by the Rhine Army. During the afternoon the shopping centre was visited, but prices were very high, and the rate of exchange was against us.
In the evening our party was invited to the Cavelu Theatre, which is an entirely different concern from anything seen in London, the audience being seated at small tables, where food and drinks are served while the performance is going on. The show was one of the best. There were two English turns on the bill – Walker’s Academy Girls and Miss Elsie Terry.

The morning was spent in visiting the Cathedral, and we were fortunate in securing as our guide the services of a priest who spoke English well. The erection of this wonderful structure was commenced in the year 1248, and it was not completed until 1880 – over 600 years. The towers are 460ft high, and the length of the building is 400ft. the windows are magnificent works of art. Nearly all of them were removed during the war, placed out of reach of damage, and returned to their positions after hostilities had ceased. Every piece of wood in the choir stalls has been carved by hand, and the general effect is wonderful. The lighting of this portion of the Cathedral is, however, quite modern, over 1,5000 electric lamps having been installed.

In the afternoon we repaired to the British race meeting with more or less success at finding winners. Leaving before the last race we drove through Cologne to the football ground on the other side of the river. Among the spectators were the Commander-in-Chief (General Sir Alex Godley), Sir Hugh Clifford, Mr. J. Piggott (British Commissioner), and a large number of officers.

COWS WITH OVERCOATS

SATURDAY 10th MAY - COLOGNE CATHEDRAL

The team was received with enthusiasm by the crowd, and called before General Godley, who addressed our boys, welcoming them again to Cologne. Then occurred an act that made all the German people present gasp with astonishment and unbounded delight, for the Commander-in-Chief of the British Rhine Army addressed the Cologne players, and shook hands with the whole team.
Short speeches were made by the officials of both Clubs; then Mr. Stengel, of Cologne, presented to the West Ham Club a silk banner to commemorate our visit.
The match was quite interesting, and resulted in a two-goal victory for the Hammers, Ruffells and Moore scoring. After the game both teams dined together. Some fine musical numbers were rendered by members of the Cologne Opera Co., and a very enjoyable evening was spent. Before the conclusion of the banquet Mr, Stengel made an impressive appeal for a better and closer understanding between Great Britain and Germany, which he hoped the visits of English football teams to Germany would do much to foster. Mr. G. Davis responded on behalf of West Ham.

Leaving Cologne at 10:00 am we arrived at Gladbach at noon. Lunch was served at the Hotel Lennartz. At 4:00 pm we arrived at the ground to find a sports meeting in full swing. There was some very fine performances by the German champion sprinter Houben. Mincen Gladbach is a town of 150,000 inhabitants and its principle industry is textile cotton. Owing to the charge for admission having been increased by 200 per cent, the ‘gate’ was not up to expectations. The kick-off was timed for 6:00 pm, but it was nearly 6:30 o’clock before the preliminary speeches and presentations were through, President Herr Von den Hedgt urging the need for a better understanding between Germany and Great Britain.
The West Ham players gave a fine exhibition of football, and ran out 6-1, Campbell (2), Moore (2), Watson and Carter scoring.
The refereeing in the game by Herr Dauwoens was first-class. We were entertained at a banquet and dance after the match, and it was early morning before the party broke up.

SUNDAY 11th MAY - ANOTHER WIN

General Sir Alex Godley

We left Gladbach at 1:40 pm, a large number assembling at the hotel to see us off. Arriving at Cologne again, we boarded the electric train for Godesburg, a small village a few miles from the university town of Bonn. We were booked at one of the best hotels on the Rhine, and the magnificent scenery viewed from the windows overlooking the river was enchanting. After dining, some of the party wanted some German beer, but could not find a suitable beerhouse. It appeared rather funny when the principle waiter at the hotel walked through the village street to show us the way to a “pub” and incidentally to show us how to drink!

TUESDAY 13th MAY
“BLACK SOLDIERS IN A BEAUTIFUL CITY”

The weather was glorious. Breakfast over, walks through the town of Bonn were made, and one felt hurt to see black soldiers in such a beautiful city. It is not to be wondered at that the German people feel bitter against the French for their action in stalling the Algerians in a city comparable to Oxford or Cambridge. Another reason why the German people hate the French in the Rhineland is that the French, in operating the railways, are refusing to accept German money for railway tickets, making travellers get the money changed into francs at a discount office which they operate, charging heavily on each transaction.
Some of our party went to the top of Godesburg Castle ruins (the building was destroyed by the French in the year 1600) and had some fine views of the country. Lunch was taken early, and at 1:30 pm. We boarded a motor launch, and were conveyed to a very nice resort called Konigswinter, which is at the foot of the Drakenfeld Mountain. Going ashore, we were immediately surrounded by men offering carriages, horses and donkeys to take us to the top. These and the mountain railway were patronised by various members of the party.
Arriving at the top we were rewarded by one of the most magnificent sights to be seen almost anywhere. It was gloriously clear, and with field glasses a range of fifty miles could be compassed with the Rhine winding its way north and south. Leaving Konigswinter at 5:30, we followed the banks of the river to Remengen, where we arrived at 8:00 pm. Passing the whole journey of 2½ hours in an express train, admiring the changing panorama of the Rhine on one side, and the intensive system of vineries formed upon the slopes of the hills for hundreds of miles. Dinner at Remengen was served in the open outside the hotel, and we were informed that, owing to the local industry of wine-making, no beer or mineral waters were to be sold in the town.

WEDNESDAY 14th MAY

Another fine day in view as the sun was shining into the windows at 5:00 am. After breakfast in the open air we again embarked on a launch for Bingen en route for Mannheim, where we were to play our third game that evening. Arriving at 1:45 pm. We were met at the station by officials of the Mannheim Clubs and taken to the Park Hotel. Lunch was served, and at 6:00 pm we arrived at the football ground.
The Mannheim team played a good game, but were eventually beaten before ten thousand spectators by 4-0, the goal-scorers being Watson, Williams, Robinson and Yews. Returning to the hotel, a fine dinner was served, after which most of the party had a stroll through the city.
An instance of the rather brutal manner in which the French are enforcing their views upon the Germans was witnessed by our party. We were in a tramcar crossing the Rhine, when French soldiers boarded it, and made ladies turn out their handbags and market baskets – for what purpose none of us could see.

THURSDAY 15th MAY
LOOKING AFTER THE TAXES

Some of the party were up early and had a motor tour around the city. Again we found the French soldiers posted with barbed wire fencing at each end of the industrial district. No vehicles were allowed to pass without being searched and materials checked for tax. After breakfast we were taken to Heidelburg, the university town of Germany, and were struck with the large number of students in the streets, and the shapes and colours of the college caps, as well as the large number of lads who, judging by the scars on their faces, had evidently engaged in duelling.
Heidelburg is a beautiful place, built in a valley, the hills rising each side from 1,500ft. to 1,800ft. high, with the river Necker flowing into the Rhine. The town has been the centre of European hopes and ambitions, troubles being recorded as far back as the time of Charlemagne. The castle, the beauty of which can be still seen, was destroyed by the French nearly four hundred years ago.
A walk through the town and along the banks of the river brought us to a ferry. Although the water is always running in one direction, by means of a fixed overhead wire and two large rudders it can proceed quickly without any power in either direction. Crossing by the ferry, we were taken to one of the most ancient hotels known for lunch. This place, which is finely fitted out, was built in the year 1592. In the afternoon we made the ascent of the mountain with more wonderful views of the Rhineland. Returning to Mannheim for dinner, we were later invited to the Apollo Music Hall, and saw an exceedingly good show.

FRIDAY 16th MAY
THE BIRTHPLACE OF MARTIN LUTHER

The weather was still very fine, and we had another stroll through Mannheim, being taken to see the Palace of Schloss, which is claimed to be the largest in Europe, having a frontage to the building alone of 1,800 feet. One particular feature of this town is the enormous number, and the systematic planting of the trees.
Leaving at 11:00 am, we arrived at Frankfurt-on-Maine at 1 pm. Frankfurt, the birthplace of Martin Luther, Goethe, Schiller, and other famous men, is a beautiful place of 500,000 inhabitants. We were welcomed by the officials of the city clubs, and then conducted to the Royal hotel, the manager of which, Mr. Harry Rinehart, was a former East Ham resident, having lived in High Street South for fifteen years. Immediately after lunch we were taken by motor to Staalburg Castle, which was built by the Romans, and is in a splendid state of preservation. The route chosen was via Homburg, a fine watering-place much admired by the late King Edward. Returning to Frankfurt for dinner, the evening was spent in sight-seeing.

SATURDAY 17th MAY

Another beautiful morning, but most of the party late risers. At 10:30 am the officials of the Frankfurt Club arrived at the hotel to take us for a round of sight-seeing. Motors were provided, and we were driven round the city. There are splendid avenues of trees everywhere. A stop was made at the Palm Gardens, which are claimed to be the most gorgeous in Europe, and the wonderful blooms seen were envied by all lovers of flowers. The buildings of this city are very fine, special note being taken of the railway station, which has 26 lines. A business call was made at the British consulate by the writer, and every assistance required was readily given by the Consul (Mr. A. J. Percival Butler) and the staff.
A visit was paid to the old town, which dates back 1,250 years, and numerous ancient buildings are to be seen, including the Town Hall, where twelve German Emperors were crowned between 1262 and 1692. A pleasing incident occurred before the commencement of the game with Frankfurt. A little girl, walking on to the field, accompanied by a page, presented each of our players with a spray of carnations. The game started at 6:30 pm, before a large crowd, but the German players could not tumble to the off-side rule, and were eventually beaten 4-0, all the goals being scored by Robinson. It was 10 pm before the banquet started both teams dining at the Weinhaus Riedling. As our party entered the hall the orchestra struck up “God bless the Prince of Wales,” and after the first course Mr. Hermann Schoendube proposed the toast of “The King,” which was received with musical honours. The second course disposed of, Mr. L. Johnson gave the toast of “the German Nation,” which was responded to with enthusiasm. Later Mr. White accepted on behalf of West Ham, a bronze tablet suitably framed, as a memento of our visit to the city.

SUNDAY 18th MAY
A LICKING

We had to be up a 6:00 am, being booked to leave Frankfurt at 7:00 am for Friburg. A six hours’ train journey in tropical heat, the late night at the Frankfurt banquet, and turning out to play with a burning sun and a referee who was not up to the class of those controlling the previous games, resulted in the first defeat of the Hammers during their tour on the Continent. Friburg, who are a good thrustful side, won by 5-2, two of the goals being glaring cases of the off-side infringement. The Hammers had the ball in the net in the first few minutes, but the goal was disallowed. The football ground in this town is set in one of the number of beautiful pictures we were privileged to see in South Germany, and it is impossible to aptly describe the view from any part of it.
After the match we were taken to an open air cabaret on the edge of the forest, and a very happy evening was spent, the German club being proud of being the first Continental team to beat the Hammers.
Our Friburg friends had apparently laid themselves out to give us a fine time.

Motor cars arrived at the hotel at 10:00 am, and the whole party, with a number of the Friburg officials, were taken for a circular drive of nearly 80 miles through some of the grandest scenery in the world. Passing Gunterstal, the main road took us to Fredrichof, a favourite holiday resort. Going by Kybfelsen, the highest peak of the range, and the old-world villages of Ebner, Karten and Himmelrasch, all in the valley with pine-covered mountains, each side of the road for a distance of 40 miles we reached a famous health resort called Lake Titisee; this is a splendid sheet of water over a mile above sea level. To arrive at Titisee the road winds like a snake up the mountains and at many points is on the edge of the cliffs, but if one felt timid at times when negotiating sharp curves, compensation was derived from the panorama of grandeur unfolded at every turn of the road.
Leaving Titisee, we proceeded to St. Marfgen, where lunch was served and after visiting points of interest we continued on to St. Peter, where a halt was made for our party to see the church, nestled in a small village among the mountains. It is almost impossible to describe the beauty of the interior – it leaves one thinking as to why such magnificent work was expended in such a small place.
Again boarding our cards, we started on the downward journey to Friburg, where we arrived after passing through more of this lovely country.

OFF TO SWITZERLAND

As we were booked to leave for Berne, Switzerland by the 6:00 pm train all had to pack their bags right away and proceed to the railway station, where we found a large number of persons assembled to give us a send-off, which made it almost impossible to think that only a few years had elapsed since our countries were fighting on the field of battle instead of the football field. The journey to the Swiss frontier only occupied an hour, and we were left with 30 minutes to get through the German and Swiss Customs and cross the town of Basil to the Federated Railways. The Customs’ officers passed us without trouble as soon as they were told we were a football team travelling to Berne. Taxis were obtained, but owing to some difficulty with the passport of a traveller who was between some of our players, there were several minutes’ delay. Arriving at the Swiss station, the change office had to be visited, with the result that 11 of our party missed the train.
Those left behind were just making up their minds that the evening would have to be spent in Basle, when they were informed that a special or excursion train would obtain a connection that would land them in Berne before the ordinary train. Thus, those who were left reached Berne first to tell the others when they came along that they had boarded the wrong train!

TUESDAY 20th MAY
THE SNOW-CLAD ALPS

The morning was bright and clear, and the view obtained from the terrace of the Parliament House was one of impressive grandeur – the lovely city with its background of hills, and the massive snow-clad Alps in the distance. Walks through the town to inspect points of interest, a raid for straw hats, and visits to the cathedral and beer-garden were made. The afternoon was spent quietly, and at 5 pm we were motored to the ground for the sixth game of the tour. Whether the purchasing of straw hats was unlucky or not, a lot of leg-pulling was indulged in, for just as the game commenced rain began to fall, and in a few minutes those of us who were in the grand stand witnessed the unusual spectacle of a football match in progress whilst forked lightning was flashing, thunder roaring, and there was a tropical deluge of rain and hailstones. The referee stopped the play after a quarter of an hour, but a few minutes later a resumption was made, and then occurred one of the most farcical games of football ever seen by any of our party, as there was quite six inches of water nearly the whole length of one side of the playing pitch and a small lake in front of the goals, with the result that the ball was floating and water polo instead of football became the order. The game was completed with the Hammers winners by 1-0, Yews scoring the only goal. After the match the teams and officials dined with the Berne Club, and the meal was not finished until nearly midnight.

WEDNESDAY 21st MAY

Out at 6 am, to observe the spectacle of sunrise over the Alps, and a magnificent picture it was; a walk along the banks of the River Aar, and then back to the hotel for breakfast and packing in readiness to catch the mid-day train for Paris.
After breakfast some of us made the trip to the top of the hills by the funicular railway, and were rewarded with a magnificent view of the Alps with the sun shining brilliantly, whilst after a few minutes we were enveloped in the clouds. A walk around the top of the hill revealed to us some of Nature’s handiwork in the making, and we were pleased not to have missed the object lessons obtained by such a short and easy journey.

One o’clock saw us leaving Berne en route for Paris. Passing some hundreds of miles of beautiful kaleidoscope scenery, and such interesting places as Lake Neuchatel; we arrived at the frontier town of Pontarlier, where a visit had to be paid to the French Customs for inspection of luggage. The impression one gained in passing through the countryside towards Paris was that the German farming is far better than that of the French, as the appearance of the land and crops cannot compare in any respect with those in Germany. It was midnight when we arrived in Paris, and all retired after a tedious 13-hour journey.

THURSDAY 22nd MAY

Breakfast over, some of our party motored to Versailles, and every one was unanimous that the visit was an incident in a lifetime – one to be remembered. The magnificent paintings depicting French history from early times, wonderful decorations and splendid halls – everything made a lasting impression upon one and all. Returning to Paris, lunch was taken, and then to the Stadium for our last match of the tour. We had been booked to meet the French International team, and eight of the players who turned out against us were in the team defeated by England last Saturday. The game was quite interesting, and eventually resulted in a win for France by two goals to one. Henderson, by sending the ball into his own goal, won the match for the Frenchmen.
It is probable that never before has an English League Club played in front of such a critical crowd, as no less than twenty international teams were present, including those from America, Egypt, Holland, Czecho-Slovakia, Italy, Spain, Esthonia, Sweden, Turkey, Algeria, Greece, Yugoslavia, Austria and Hungary – all in Paris ready for the Olympic Tournament, which commences on Sunday next, the first game being Spain v. Italy. Previous to the start of the game George Kay placed a large wreath on the war memorial erected in the sports ground, this act being appreciated by the spectators. After the match we returned to the Hotel Moderne for dinner, the evening being filled by a visit to an international show, where we were entertained with a variety programme by first-class artistes in a manner quite different from anything seen in London.

Another fine day in prospect, and we were early astir. Visits were made to the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysees, Notre Dame, Town Hall, Place de la Concorde, The Louvre, Luxemburg Palace and other interesting places in the city. After lunch everyone was bent on shopping, and the obtaining of reparations for absent relatives and friends.

1925 - 26 Official Handbook

1926 TOUR of MADRID, CORUNNA and VIGO HANDBOOK

Players and Officials outside the Royal Palace 24th May 1926

This Tour Handbook was only issued to Players and Officials

1926 - 27 Official Handbook

1927 - 28 Official Handbook

West Ham United Continental Tour in Denmark, Sweden and Norway

Written by Mr. A.C. Davis – Director

The world-wide popularity of Association Football is shown by invitations being sent us this year to visit the United States of America, Germany, Spain, Denmark, - Sweden and Norway, and being desirous of becoming acquainted with football in Scandinavia we decided to accept the request from Copenhagen, Gothenburg and Oslo for a visit from West Ham.
Our previous tours had taken us to Spain. Holland, Germany, France, Czecho Slavonia, Austria, Hungary and Switzerland, so that we were visiting places entirely new to most of us by going North.
The party which left Liverpool Street on May the 10th. by the 7.40 p.m. boat train, included— E. Hufton, J. Hebden G. Horler, A. Earl, A, Cadwcll, J. Barrett, W. Moore. J. Collins, J. Eccles, T. Yews, V. Watson, J. Johnson, T. Ruffell, J. Loughlin, G. Robson, W. White, F Pratt, G. Davis, L. Johnson, J. W. Y. Ceams, W. T. Cearns, A C. Davis, C. Paynter and E. S. King.
Arriving at Harwich at 10 p.m., we boarded the S.S. Parkeston, and as the sea was rough most of the party were soon in bed where the majority remained until arrival at Esbjerg, where snow had been falling heavily during the day.
As soon as we were through the Customs and having a couple of hours to spare, all the party went to the Palm Restaurant where a very nice supper was served, and as it was the first meal after 14 hours' tossing about at sea, ample justice was done to the food served in the Cabaret. The artistes meanwhile rendering some English songs.
Back to the train at midnight we were very soon in our sleeping berths and awoke next morning nearing Copenhagen, where we arrived at 8 o'clock, and were met at the station by a number of football Officials.
I remarked in the report last year of our visit to Spain, how small the world is and this was again demonstrated for as we were entering the Cosmopolitine Hotel, Dr. Hansen, of Green Street, was just leaving for Upton Park.

The difference in the weather was very noticeable. From Esbjerg to Copenhagen snow was lying on the ground and as we were preparing for a stroll around the city after breakfast snow commenced to fall again, so our first tour of inspection was postponed until after lunch. Copenhagen with its 750,000 inhabitants is described as the Paris of the North, but in some respects it is more like Athens. However there is no doubt that the Danish capital is a magnificent city with fine broad - Boulevards, magnificent old architecture with some of the noblest treasures built by King Christian IV, distinguishes Copenhagen, and when you see the old canals around Christiansborg you feel yourself transported to mediaeval times. The harbour of Copenhagen with its numerous quays and wharves is proof of the vast business carried on in a city where you are always only a few minutes from the sea. The city has many magnificent museums of world wide fame. Thorvaldsen's Museum, Rosenburg Castle, the National Museum, the Glyptother and pleasure spaces include numerous parks. The Tivoli Gardens, Zoological Gardens, and the Frederiksburg Garden are to be recommended and the various Theatres are quite up to the continental standard.

The weather has changed, for the sun is shining and we are looking forward to a fine day for the first game of the tour. The kick off was fixed for 1.30 p.m., to leave us free to attend the races which started at 4 p.rn. The whole of our party were given access to the members' enclosure, and thanks to the interest of the English jockeys we nearly all returned on the winning side. The Copenhagen Stadium is one of the finest enclosures on the continent. The turf was in splendid condition and the dressing accommodation compares with any ground in England.
The game was against a combined Copenhagen eleven, and our team was : - Hufton, Hebden, Horler, Collins, Barrett, Cadweil, Yews, Moore, Watson, Johnson, Ruffell. The play on both sides was clean and pleasant. The 20,000 spectators being treated to some goal scoring during the second half, as after crossing over with a clean sheet the Hammers ran out winners by 5- 1. The goals being scored by Johnson, Watson (2), Yews (3). The referee, Mr. Wilhelm Jorgensen, was one of the best we had ever had on the continent.
After the races we were entertained at the Tivolt Gardens, a place almost impossible to aptly describe, there being wonderful dance and concert halls, theatre in open air, numerous restaurants and amusements, and the lighting effects surpassing anything ever seen in England.

Team group from a Copenhagen Newspaper

Image courtesy of Stuart Allen

SATURDAY 14th May

Snow was falling heavily at 7 a.m., but after breakfast the weather suddenly changed and the sun shining brilliantly some of us made a tour of the city. The morning trip being through the Amalianborg Square, which has a fine equestrian statue of King Frederick V in the centre. Following the direction in which the statue is facing the wonderful Marble Church is seen at the end of Frederiksgade. This church was 125 years building. The City's most imposing square is the Kongen's Nytor and it is here we see the Royal Theatre and Opera House, Royal Academy, The Handelsbank Hotel, Angleterre, and Magasin du Nords, the Selfridges of Scandinavia. In the centre is the equestrian statute of King Christian V, which is a favourite meeting place in the city and is known as the Horse. It is from this spot to the Kiosk in the Raadhaspladen that constitutes Copenhagen's favourite promenade. Passing on we arrive at the district called Slotsholmen connected with the ancient history of Denmark, but to-day occupied by the Christiansborg Palace, the Foreign Office and the Courts of Justice.
After lunch our party had been invited to inspect the modern Lager beer Brewery of Tuborg, who are known throughout the world, and the time spent in the various departments was an experience well worth recording, as we have followed the footsteps of such famous people as the King of Denmark, our own late lamented Queen Alexandra, and the Empress Dagcar of Russia. Numerous other world famed people have signed the visitors book of this most up-to-date brewery, where a million bottles of lager beer can he made daily.
Returning to the hotel for dinner, we found an invitation waiting for all the party to visit the famous Schumann Circus, and we were treated to one of the finest shows possible to be seen anywhere. The act of Schumann himself, controlling eighteen horses and six ponies in the ring together, is something to be remembered; and the juggling act of Rasselli was a wonderful piece of work.

An early morning walk was made to the sea front, and as the kick-off for the second match was fixed for 1.30 lunch was taken at 11 a.m.
The Copenhagen officials selected an entirely new eleven none of the players in Friday's game taking part. The Hammers' team was: Hufton, Hebden, Earl, Yews, Collins, Cadwell, Eccles, Robson, Watson, Johnson and Ruffell.

The game was again very clean on both sides, and goals were scored by Eccles and Ruffell (2), West Ham winning 3-1.
We were honoured by the presence of King Christian at the match, and at half-time his Majesty came on the field and spoke to each of the players and officials. The remark the King made to Jack Hebden was: "You're a hefty fellow; I should not like to meet you on the left wing,"
After the game we were taken to the seaside and tea was served in the Danish Yacht Club's headquarters, a very delightful spot called Langelince, where Copenhagen people promenade in thousands. On the way back to the hotel we were shown the Royal Palace and other interesting places.
During the evening another visit was made to the enchanting Tivoli Gardens to finish a delightful day, and it is astonishing to English visitors how the Continental people carry on with their late nights, as it appeared to us that more people were coming into the Tivoli at 11.30 p.m. than at any earlier hour.

WEST HAM UNITED v. COPENHAGEN XI

H.M. the King of Denmark makes Jack Hebden smile at Half-Time

A trip by motor from Copenhagen had been arranged by our Danish friends for to-day, and shortly after lunch they arrived with a number of private cars, and we were soon on the road to Fredericksborg Castle through pretty stretches of woodland and lakes.
Arriving at Hillerod, one is impressed with beautiful natural scenery, but the notable object is the Castle, which is one of the greatest and most important of the older Nordic buildings, and is one of the most distinguished monuments in the country. Built in the 16th century, it has in the courtyard a wonderful Neptune fountain, which was even more beautiful when first built in 1613, as the magnificent statues, of which the present ones are copies, were carried off as war trophies by the Swedes in 1659. The Castle Church has been the Coronation Church of the Danish Kings since that of Christian IV. In the clock tower is a peal of 27 bells, six different hymns being played - one after the striking of every hour, Returning via the coast road, a stop was made at Scodsborg, a seaside resort about 12 miles from Copenhagen, where tea was provided and, as rain commenced to fall, an impromptu concert was arranged and songs were rendered by George Horler, Joe Johnson, G. F. Davis, L. Johnson and J. W. Cearns, with Tommy Yews at the piano. Arriving back at the hotel about 7.I5, a quick dinner was served, and we later visited the Scala Theatre, where a revue, quite up to the quality of London shows, was staged.

TUESDAY 17th May

The sun was shining brightly as we walked out to Langelinie before lunch, the fresh air, and the boulevards being a fine tonic. Cycling plays a prominent part in the life of the Danish people, and we were informed that, of the 750,000 people in Copenhagen, nearly half of them ride cycles, A visit uas also paid to the Zoological Gardens and the Botanical Gardens before proceeding to the Stadium.
The kick-off for our last and most important match in Copenhagen was arranged for 7 p.m., and as we were to meet the strongest Danish side, we decided to play Hufton, Hebden, Earl, Collins, Barrett, Cadwell, Yews, Robson, Watson, Moore, Ruffell.
The Copenhagen team was practically their internationial side, and the game was the best of the three matches. The good play on both sides was enjoyed by the 15,000 spectators present. West Ham won by 2—0, Robson and Watson being the scorers.
After the game both teams and officials were entertained at a banquet, served in the spacious restaurant attached to the Stadium, and after dining, during which the health of the Kings of England and Denmark were drank with musical honours, the party adjourned to another hall, where a smoking concert was held, several of our party rendering excellent items.
Mr. Henry Larsen spoke of the great pleasure the visit of West Ham had been to all the Danish officials and players, and emphasised the fact that the Hammers had given the cleanest exhibition of football ever seen in Denmark, and hoped that they would see them in Copenhagen again very soon.
In the three games Copenhagen played 30 different players, and the general opinion of them all was that West Ham played clever and clean football.
The concert finished about 4 a.m., and as we were due to leave for Gothenburg just after noon all were soon in bed.

WEDNESDAY 18th May

We left Copenhagen at 2.12 p.m. for Gothenburg, a large number of our Danish friends being at the station to wish us "Au revoir." Arriving at Helsingor at 4.15 p.m., the train was ferried across to Sweden, and from the boat could be seen Kronberg Castle, where in the park is the supposed Hamlet's grave and Ophelia's Well, as recorded in Shakespeare's play; and a little further along the coast is the town of Odense, the birthplace of that famous writer of fairy tales, Hans Anderson.
Arriving at Heisingborg we were required to fill in cards of identification and pass the Customs, but there was no trouble, for as soon as they knew we were West Ham Football Club we were told to close our bags. Leaving at 4.45 p.m. we had a five hours journey to Gothenburg, during which time we witnessed a glorious sunset at 8.30 p.m.
The country appeared to be extensively cultivated, hardly any grazing land being noticed over the 200 miles between Helsingborg and Gothenburg. Arriving at the latter town about 10 p.m. we were welcomed by the officials of the several clubs in the town who, after seeing us fixed up at the Palace Hotel, drove us to a famous restaurant, where we were entertained to supper.

THURSDAY 19th May

A beautiful morning, and a walk before breakfast. Our Swedish friends arrived about 11 o'clock to take the party for a drive round the town. Gothenburg is the principal seaport of Sweden, having a population of 200,000 people, and it is very fine and clean, has splendid boulevards, a wonderful natural park, and the canals give a pleasant contrast to the home towns. The principle objects of interest are the Hamnen, Norra-on-Sodra, Stottsskogen, Botanical Garden, and the Skansen Leyonet. It is also from this city that the famous Gota Canal, one of the oldest in the world, connects by water the City of Stockholm, 347 miles distant. The great power station at Trollhattan, with its renowned waterfall, is an object of great interest, as nearly 200,000 horse-power of electrical energy are being generated by the waterfall (the white coal of Sweden).

The sun, shining brightly, brought all down early for breakfast. We received invitations to visit the works of the S.K.F. Ball-Bearing Company and Messrs. Kanolds Chocolate Factory. Mr. N. Gibson, of the Swedish English Society, arrived about 11 a.m. to accompany the party. The confectionery works were first visited, and the various processes the different sweetmeats went through were explained by Mr. Raymond Kanold, and our boys were not slow in tasting all the good things shown. After thanking the management for their courtesy we motored to the S.K.F. Works at the other side of the town to see the process of manufacture of ball and roller bearings. The S.K.F. is the largest works of its kind in the world, employing over 2,400 people, which, together with the branch factories in England and America, have a total staff of 10,500.
Our party were conducted over the works by Mr, S. Wikstrom, who had been for some considerable time at the S.K.F. Works at Luton, and he was able to explain to us all the details in perfect English. We witnessed the bursting test of three 1 inch balls, placed one on the other, and a pressure of 38 tons applied before they collapsed. The balls are so perfectly made that one dropped on a surface plate will bounce between sixty and seventy times before stopping in practically the centre of the plate. The Gothenburg works can turn out 14,000 ball bearings per day of 1,100 different types, with balls from one-eighth to eight inches in diameter. The Swedish factory consumes about 20,000 tons of steel per annum, at a cost of 800,000 kroner.
The inspection of these works was an education to all our party, who were impressed with the wonderful organisation involved in the manufacture of what is, to the average cyclist, a very minor part of his machine.
For the fourth game of our tour the team selected was; Hufton, Hebden, Earl, Collins, Barrett, Cadwell, Yews, Moore, Loughlin, Johnson and Ruffell.
The Gothenburg Stadium is a splendid and well-appointed ground, and the natural beauty of the surrounding hills make a picture seldom seen on a football enclosure. Taxes are very high, 20 per cent, of the gate money being taken by the City as rent and 30 per cent, entertainment tax. The match here was against a picked team and, as Gothenburg are reputed to be the best Continental side, they last year beat Aston Villa 5--1 and 3—2, and Derby County 3-1, our players knew they were up against a tough proposition. The weather was ideal for football, and a crowd of 20,000 assembled to witness a very keen struggle, as the Swedish players maintained their reputation and played a splendid game, the scoring being 1—1, 2—2, 3—3, and Barrett scored the fourth goal for the Hammers a few minutes before the finish of a keen game, in which we saw several Swedes who would be an acquisition to any league club.
After the game both teams and officials were entertained at the Palace Hotel, where an excellent dinner was served. Mr. Paiman, a former resident of Woodford, was in the chair, and in the course of his speech said that, after several years, their endeavours to get West Ham to visit Gothenburg had been realised, and what they had seen he hoped that, if possible, we would repeat our visit next year, as they heartily agreed with the reports they had read in the Danish papers that the Hammers played the cleanest football ever they had seen.
The Chairman asked Mr. W. F. White (chairman of the West Ham Club) to accept a piece of silver, upon which was mounted the badges of the clubs, as a memento of the visit; and Mr. E. S. King (secretary) was presented with a silver cigarette case,
Musical items were rendered by Mr. Ludoc Genizel, Mr. Heian, Mr. Boorklund, Mr. Joe Johnson, Mr. George Horler, Mr. G. F. Davis and Mr. Thomas Yews, and a very pleasant assembly disbanded early on.

SATURDAY 21st May

We were leaving Gothenburg by the 1.40 p.m. train for Oslo and, as Blackburn Rovers were due to arrive on the same train, we arranged to give them an English greeting, but were disappointed, as they had presumably altered their schedule, and we left with the wishes of our Swedish friends for an early return. The scenery during the eight hours journey to Oslo was a succession of beautiful pictures of woodland, lakes and waterfalls, the one at Sarpsfoerg being like a miniature Niagara rapids.
The train was on time at Oslo, where we were met by a number of officials, including the chairman of the Alliance, Mr. Granum. Cars were waiting to drive us to the Grand Hotel, and we were later taken for a stroll through the principal thoroughfares.

The last game of the tour was arranged to kick off at one p.m. and, as H.M. the King of Norway and Crown Prince Olaf had decided to honour the match with their presence, we decided to field:- Hufton, Hebden, Earl, Collins, Barrett, Cadwell, Yews, Moore, Watson, Johnson, Ruffell. The game proved to be quite an easy thing for the Hammers, who won 6—2, goals being scored by Watson Ruffell (2), Johnson (2) and Moore.
The King, Prince Olaf, and the gentlemen in attendance appeared to be quite pleased with the football played by the West Ham players. I append the welcome the Oslo clubs printed on the front page of the programme in English.

"We take great pleasure in extending to the Representatives and the Players of The West Ham Football Club a cordial welcome to Norway. Being the first time that your club visits Norway, we sincerely hope that you all will take nothing but pleasant memories with you when you go away from here and we further hope that you will return at some future date for the enjoyment of both the general public and the football players here. Despite the fact that spring has been unusullty tardy this year and nature thus does not show herself as smiling as the season should warrant, we nevertheless hope that our guests will feel at home among us and derive as much pleasure and benefit out of their visit as possible. The undersigned Clubs will at any rate do their utmost in order that the visit may become an enjoyable and cordial as possible. We here in Norway have always looked upon British Football—which we consider the best in the World - with admiration and awe, and we follow closely the games played in your home country. We are thus not unfamiliar with the results attained by your club, and take the opportunity to offer our best congratulations with your fine season. We are fully aware of the fact that the place you occupy in the Great English League is an accomplishment of the first order. We also know that your players on several occasions participate in representative combination teams, and we anticipate with joy to see these players in action. The Football Sport here in Oslo is not at present exactly in a flourishing situation and we need badly the opportunity to watch a team able to show us the sport at its best. And as we now have a good turf playing ground we hope that your players will be able to 'cut loose' like they were at home.
We wish welcome to Oslo,
Lyn-Frigg-allamcen.

The evening was spent at the circus, where we witnessed the performance of an Indian Fakir who jumped on broken glass, stood on the edges of sharp swords and put lighted torches in his mouth, and did other uncanny tricks. Oslo, the capital city of Norway, has a population of ,100,000, and is situated on a beautiful bay dotted with numerous islands, whilst the surrounding scenery is magnificent.

An excursion to Frogneisoherln was arranged and a panorama of beautiful scenery is unfolded all along the route. The view from Lillwand is gorgeous, and it is impossible for anyone to adequately describe the grandeur of the picture. The sea, mountains, trees, flowers, lakes, ice and snow, with the sun shining brilliantly, was a combination making a scene long to be remembered. Snowballing was indulged in before taking refreshment at the restaurant on top of the mountain, where a pleasant time was spent previous to returning to Oslo for lunch and packing our bags for home.
Our return journey commenced at six p.m., when the train pulled out of Oslo station en route for Copenhagen and England. We arrived at Frederikshald at 9 p.m and luncheon baskets were put on the train, sleeping berths fixed up, and after a light meal, most of the party were soon in bed, sleeping through the all-night journey to Copenhagen, where we arrived at 8.30 a.m.

TUESDAY 24th May

We broke the journey home for 24 hours, during which time shopping expeditions were made. An invitation had been extended to us to witness the second game between Copenhagen and Middlesbrough, who were defeated by the local team on Sunday, the 22nd, 4 goals to 2.
Arriving at the Stadium at 6.15 p.m., we met the Middlesbrough officials and players, and the various games were discussed before the kick off at 7 p.m. Middlesbrough were out to retrieve their first lapse. They were the better aide all round and eventually ran out winners by 8 goals to 2. During dinner one evening Jack Hebrfen, on behalf of the players, presented Charlie Paynter with a silver cigarette case; and a cigar case was presented by the directors to Ebbe Swartz, for his untiring energy on behalf of the whole party, which made our stay at Copenhagen one of the best holidays we have had on the Continent.
On the journey to Esbjerg we were given a few flying stunts by a Banish airman, who at one time was flying alongside the train not more than 30ft. from the ground. Arriving at Kossar the whole train was transported by the ferry from Zeeiand to Friesfeind, the passage across the water taking nearly two hours. During the trip luncheon was served on the ferry, which are the largest boats of the kind we have seen.
Leaving Usberg about 12.30 p.m, we boarded the second train ferry at 1.15, and were landed on Jutland about 2.30, from whence the train ran through to Esbjerg, where we arrived at 4.45. The s.s. Bernstorit left Esbjerg at 5.15, and as a rather strong wind was blowing it was feared that we were in for a bad crossing. Dinner was served at 5.30, and as most of the party had taken a good tea on the train, a number of us had no room for dinner, served so early, and soon retired for the night.

THURSDAY 26th May

A bright morning and a moderate sea. The 8 a.m. breakfast bell did not bring many of our party out, but most were up by 10 a.m., and as the wind had dropped we were having a pleasant trip, and it was anticipated we should reach Harwich by 4.30, but still better time was made, and we landed at 4 p.m.
A quick run to Liverpool Street, during which dinner was served, and at 7 p.m. our party dispersed, after completing one of the best trips made, thanks to the excellent arrangements of the International Sleeping Car Company.
The tour had been a success from a football aspect, as well as a pleasent holiday, the five matches being won as follows:- Copenhagen 5-1, 3-1, 2-0; Gothenburg: 4-3; Oslo: 6-2; total goals 20-7. The goals were scored by V. Watson 4, J. Ruffell 6, T. Yews 3, J. Johnson 3, W, Moore 1, G. Robson 1, J. Barrett 1, J. Eccles 1.

Piczo