History Day at Fratton Park on Sunday
Want to know about Pompey’s first ever game on the continent?
Or perhaps you would like to reminisce about the club’s UEFA Cup exploits in 2008?
There is something for everyone at the Pompey History Society’s latest History Day event on Sunday (April 9).
Entitled ‘Pompey Versus the Rest of the World’ and taking place in the Victory Lounge from 11am-2pm, there will be a range of exhibits on display, telling the story of matches against opposition from overseas.
Graham Dubber, who heads up archiving at the society, has been hard at work this week unearthing exhibits from the club’s records.
He said: “I’m a bit of an anorak I suppose, but I am really interested in the club ledgers from the 1950s, which detail the income and expenditure from our home games against continental opposition during that decade. They tell a fascinating story.
“The relevant pages will form part of the exhibition, but we have also come across an assortment of trophies and artefacts presented to the club over the years.
“These range from plates and other tableware from places as far flung as Hong Kong and Japan, through to a letter of appreciation sent from a UAE football club to congratulate Sulaiman Al-Fahim when he became chairman in 2009.”
There is also the chance on the day to take a tour of Fratton Park at a family-friendly price.
Accompanied children go free with a paying adult (£10) and the tours can be booked here.
Colin Farmery, who manages history and archiving projects at Pompey, said: “The volunteers at the history society have been delving through the club’s archive and have turned up a number of interesting objects and records in club ledgers, which give a fascinating insight into matches against foreign opposition.
“It is shaping up to be a fascinating exhibition and we are sure fans will appreciate it.”
The club’s twice-yearly programme and memorabilia fair is being held at the same venue, while there will also be a display by the Pompey Pals charity.