Glamorgan Wanderers RFC

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Founded in October 1893 by a group of ex-pupils of Monkton House School, the Wanderers were originally known as Old Monktonians, but in 1913 it was decided to change the name to Glamorgan Wanderers Rugby Football Club. The name change was deemed necessary as the club’s membership had widened somewhat since its formation. The Wanderers grew into their new name well, utilizing seven different grounds to host home matches until the club arrived at its present home in 1952, having played at Sophia Gardens, Tydraw Road, Penylan, Bishop’s Field, Llandaff, and several locations in Whitchurch and Llandaff North. In fact the Three Elms pub, still on Whitchurch Common, was used as the club headquarters for more than thirty years, with older club members relishing the salubrious facilities, including for the first time, a hot bath after a match. The present ground in St Fagan’s Court was purchased by raising money via various appeals post World War II. Thus ‘The Memorial Ground’, dedicated to all those players who lost their lives in the two World Wars. The Wanderers Club in Cardiff’s Wyndham Arcade became a famous watering hole from 1923 and many business deals were clinched in the dining room, whilst the snooker room saw many a tense battle and many famous names including Wales’ greatest ever boxer Jimmy Wilde who graced the green baize. This was one of the first such clubs to be formed in Wales and its unique atmosphere attracted rugby aficionados from all walks of life, and on international days from all over the world! Its closure in 1969 is still mourned by many inside and outside the club.