The World-Rugby-Museum is pleased to exhibit the Neath RFC Committee Minute books 1887 - 1892. These are the oldest known records of the oldest club in Wales. These came up at auction in the late 1990s, we were concerned that they would fall into the wrong hands and notified the club that they were being offered for sale. We suggested that the club purchase these unique historical artefacts and that we were happy to bid on their behalf as we would be at the auction. There was initial interest but when told that they could expect to pay £500 for the pair of books the club declined to bid. (Soon after it was made public that there were huge debts at the club and they were summarily taken over by the Welsh Rugby Union). We were determined to keep these books in Neath and were successful at the auction. Our feelings are that records of this importance should be available to the public for research and viewing. Below you will find several pages which have been transcribed (Our thanks to the many volunteers listed at the foot of this page who have helped with this) from the minute books and the next few pages as photographs. If you are able to help by transcribing any of these pages, please click the link below and email the text to us. We will then add the text to this page and acknowledge your contribution.  (The text in red are our notes)  

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Neath Football Club Minute Book 1887 - 1891 (1)

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Before the conclusion of season 1886-7 the Hon. Secretary Mr J. Harry Hawkins resigned his office and at a General Meeting held at the Town Hall - Council Chambers - in the month of November 1886 Mr. A. Russell Thomas at the unanimous request of the meeting, which was largely attended , consented to accept the office of Honorary Secretary for a few months at least in order - as he explained - to work up (if possible) the affairs and the standard of the club. From this date to the end of the season sundry committee meetings were held both at The Llewellyn Arms Coffee Tavern and at the Young Men's Christian Association Rooms but no record of these meetings was kept. 

At a Committee Meeting held at the Llewellyn Arms Coffee Tavern on Tuesday Evening 24th May1887 8.30 

Present: Mr. S. S. Clarke in the Chair

Mr H. A. Bowen

Mr E. G. Jones

Mr W. E. Rees

Mr H. Langford

Mr J. Williams

Mr A Russell Thomas

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The Hon Sec read the Balance Sheet which he proposed to produce at the General Meeting when the committee expressed satisfaction with same. Friday evening 3rd. June was decided to hold General Meeting at Town Hall - Council Chambers - The question of a Northern Tour was discussed when it was arranged that the Secretary write to the Northern Teams & try if possible to come to terms with them. The following places were mentioned. Bradford, Swinton, Hull, Broughton Rangers, Wakefield Trinity, Dewsbury, Manningham, Wigan, Batley, Leeds, St Johns, Moseley, Brighouse Rangers.

signature of  S. S. Clark -

Chairman

At the Annual General Meeting of the Neath Football Club held at the Town Hall, Council Chambers, on Friday Evening 3rd June 1887 at 8 o,clock

                Present Mr Tom Williams in the chair & a large number of gentlemen present.

                The Secretary read the Balance Sheet which showed a balance of 3/7 in hand

Moved by Mr E. G Jones

Seconded by Mr Langford

Resolved that the balance sheet be passed

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Mr Russell Thomas proposed that Mr Tom Williams be elected President

Seconded by Mr J. Williams  unanimously carried

Moved by Mr Tom Williams

Sec d Mr Walter Rees

Resolved that the Mayor's name head the list of Patrons

Moved  by Mr A Russell Thomas

Seconded by Mr S.S. Clark

Resolved that any gentlemen who is Disposed to subscribe1/2 a guinea towards the club be elected Vice President

Moved by  Mr J Williams

Seconded by Mr Walter E Rees

Resolved that Mr S. S Clark (Sam Clark, Neath's first ever international) be appointed Captain of The Neath Football Club & supported by Mr J. G. Davies & Mr Harry Langford

Moved By Mr Tom Williams

Seconded by Mr Langford

Resolved that Mr Fred Kempthorne be elected Vice Captain

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Moved & Seconded & Resolved that Mr Thomas Jones be Captain of the 2nd Fifteen

Moved by Mr Tom Williams

2nd by Mr S.S. Clark

Resolved that Mr Russell Thomas be re-elected Hon Sec of the Club

Moved by Mr A Russell Thomas

2nd by Mr E.G. Jones

Resolved That Mr Walter Rees be elected Assistant Sec'y

Moved by Mr ???? (both Jones and Williams crossed out)

Seconded by Mr Tom Williams

Resolved that the Committee consist of  seven members  with power to add to their number

The following Gentlemen were elected upon the committee 

Messers H. Langford J. E Jones, E.G. Jones, H. A Bowen, D Williams J.G. Davies + Johnny Williams 

Votes of  thanks to the officers of the year 1886-7 & to the chairman brought the meeting to a close

signature of  T or J  Williams

Chairman

*****

Mr. E. George Jones in the Chair

Stanley Elt, 

Walter E. Rees, 

H. A. Bowen, 

J. Williams, 

A. Russell Thomas, 

D^d. Williams  

*****

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The first business of the meeting was to elect 2 representatives to journey to Newport to attend Welsh Football Union meetings when officers for the ensuing year constitutes the chief business.

     Proposed by Mr. Walter Rees that Mr. A Russell Thomas & Mr. H. A. Bowen be elected to represent the Club at Newport provided the latter gentleman be appointed Captain by the General meeting seconded by Mr. Stanley Elt & carried.

     Proposed by Mr. H. A. Bowen & seconded by Mr. Walter Rees that Mr. A Russell Thomas stand for the post of Committeeman on the Welsh Football Union at the meeting to be held next Saturday, & referred to above.

     Proposed by Mr. Stanley Elt that Mr. Edward Morgan be appointed Printer for Season. Seconded by Mr, H. A. Bowen & carried.

Proposed by Mr. H. A. Bowen

Seconded by Mr. D^d Williams

     That the terms of the Cricket Club be accepted viz: ₤15 for use of Field & Pavilion during Season.                                         Carried unan:

E. Gwyn Jones

(Chairman)

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At a General Meeting held at the Council Chamber on Tuesday evening 20^th Septr. 1887 for the purpose of electing a Captain Mr. R. J. Thomas not accepting the office bestowed upon him at the last General Meeting.

     Present Mr. E. Gwyn Jones in the Chair & a large number of members.

     Mr Chas. Harris proposed that Mr. Bowen be elected Captain.

     Mr. Fred. Kempthorne seconded & carried unanimously.

     Mr. Bowen briefly acknowledged the honour & accepted the office.

     In the move? of Mr. Bowen on the Committee Mr. D^d Watkins was elected by a large majority.

     Mr. D^d Watkins protested against the member of the Committee representing Newport & Cardiff at the Union Meetings.

     Mr. E. George Jones & Mr. A. Russell Thomas’ names were proposed to be recommended to the Union for appointment on the Committee of the Union .

     Mr Russell Thomas was elected by 31 votes to 13.

E. Gwyn Jones

Chairman

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A Committee Meeting of this Club was held at the  Y.M.C.A. Rooms on Tuesday Evening 27^th Sep. 1887 when the chief business was the selection of the team to play the first match against Cardiff on 1^st Oct.  Present Mr. H. Langford Mr H. A. Bowen, Mr E.G. Jones Mr. W. E. Rees & Mr. A Russell Thomas.

     A Committee Meeting held at Y.M.C.A. Rooms on 4^th Oct. 1889 present Messrs: H. A. Bowen, E.G. Jones, Walter E. Rees, D^d Watkins, & A. Russell Thomas.

     Upon the motion of Mr A. Russell Thomas it as decided that the Secretary write Mr. T. J. Carlisle of Swansea thanking him for his gratuitous services as Referee in the last week’s match Cardiff v Neath.

     The amount presented the late Captain Mr. Sam S. Clark at the close of the match above referred to was ₤8.11.6 together with the illuminated address.

     The Secretary produced a written undertaking proposed to be signed by one or two members of the Club guaranteeing the sum of ₤15 to the Cadoxton Cricket Club as Ground Rent for Season 1887-8.  Mr. Russell Thomas was asked to sign the undertaking which he agreed to do upon the understanding that if the funds of the Club would not allow the payment of this amount the members of the Committee would do their utmost to raise the money so that Mr. Russell Thomas should be at no personal loss.

 ******

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Messers J. G. Davies, Walter E. Rees, G. Williams, D^d. Watkins, H. A. Bowen (captain) and A. Russell Thomas.

At a committee meeting of this club held on 25^th October 1887 at the Mackworth Hotel present; Messrs H. A. Bowen captain in the chair, J. G. Davies, H Longford, E G Jones,  D^d. Watkins, Stanley Elt, W E Rees, & A. Russell Thomas.

Some doubt  having arise as to who should find the men for play after selection by the committee. Mr A. Russell Thomas moved & Mr J G Davies seconded. Shell this committee look upon  the captain as the responsible person for the team from its selection till the conclusion of the match for which it is picked. Carried this was the chief business of the meeting,

At a committee meeting of this club held on 1st Nov 1887 at the Mackworth hotel present; Messrs H. A. Bowen captain in the chair J G Davies, H Longford, , Walter E. Rees, J Williams, D Williams, D^d. Watkins, A. Russell Thomas. 

Moved by Mr H Longford & seconded by Mr J G Davies that in future in home fixtures neither of our secretaries engage in the play in any capacity; this one particularly refers to ??? and refereeing. Carried Mr Russell Thomas ???   

*****

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The secretary ??? a/c from the captain of the 2nd XV for 5/1 train fares and asked the committee to decide whether this was to be paid when it was decided by 5 votes to 4 . Upon the motion of Mr J G Davies it was decided that Mr E G Jones be considered the recognized 

At a committee meeting  held at the Mackworth Hotel on Tuesday evening 8th Nov 19887 at 8 o'clock present; Messrs N A Bowen (captain) in the chair E. G. Jones , W. E. Rees, H Langford, J Williams, D^d. Watkins, J. G. Jones, J G Davies.

Upon the motion of Mr E. G. Jones seconded by Mr Walker, E Rees it was decided by 6 votes to 3 that the Neath club do not play the match arranged with the Skewen club after the treatment  received at the grounds of the Skewen club. Mr Langford moved an amendment  which was supported by Mr Russell Thomas but lost by 6 to 2. 

This was the only business of the committee

There was a committee meeting held at the Mackwrth Hotel on Tuesday evening 15th Nov 1887. the secretary notes of such meeting containing list of these present together with the business having ??? lost it was impossible that the minutes could be inserted ???. But the committee at such meeting

*****

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deemed it desirable that a Room should be obtained for the use of the Players so that “Runs” might more regularly be indulged in.  Mr. Andrews was called into the Committee Room & asked if he could grant the necessary accommodation when it was found to be quite out of the question on his premises.  After an inspection of the “Crown” premises kept by the Misses Messenger it was ultimately decided to make the “Crown” Hotel the Club’s “Head Quarters”.

At a Committee Meeting held at the Crown Hotel on Tuesday Evening 22^nd Nov. 1887 Present: H. A. Bowen (Captain) in the Chair, Messrs. J. G. Davies, E. G. Jones, W. E. Rees , J. Williams, H. Langford, D^d. Williams & A. Russell Thomas.

     An application having been made by the “Institute” Club for the use of the Field on Saturday next for which they were prepared the pay the sum of 5/-.

     It was decided that the application be granted.

Moved by H. Langford & 2^{nd d} by J. Williams.

     That the Newport Club be asked to supply the Neath Team with a cheap tea on Saturday next when Neath purposes visiting Newport & in the event of their refusing to do so that 1/- be allowed 16 men out of the Funds of the Club.

Carried without dissent.

Mr. E. G. Jones have intimated that it would not be convenient

*****

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 & that the Neath Football Committee Appointed Referees. Carried 15 votes to 4.

     Moved by Mr. Albert Rees seconded by Mr. Jho Evans (Institute) that Minor Clubs whether consisting of 1^st 15 men or not should be eligible. Carried 12 to 9 .

     Proposed by Mr. Cole seconded by Mr. Albert Rees that Home members should only play.  The word Home meaning that playing members should be at home at least twice a week.  Carried unanimously.

 The Drawing resulted as follows.

A.      N. Institute             v.       Pontardawe.

B.      Morriston               v.       N. G. A. Y.    

(N.G.A.Y - possibly Neath Artillery - mentioned later in the book ???)

C.      Skewen                v.       Aberavon.

D.      Resolven                v.       Neath 2^nds

E.      Melyn Rovers        v.       Neath Abbey.

F.       Glantawe               v.       Manselton.

G.      Mynyddbach                             a bye.

     2^nd Tie

H.        Winner of A. to play G.

I.            Do         “  B.    “     “   D.  

*****

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 H.        Winner of C to play F.

I.            E a bye.

J.           H to play winner of K.

K.        I   to     “         “      “   J.

Final

Winner of L to play winner of M.

 It was decided that A & B matches be played on Saturday next at 2.30 and 4 p.m.

J. G. Davies

Chairman.

At a General Meeting of members held on Tuesday March 27^th. 1888 at the Guildhall for the purposes of electing a Secretary in the place of Mr. A. Russell Thomas who has resigned.

Mr. J. G. Davies was voted to the Chair.

It was proposed by Mr. Fred Kempthorne & seconded by Mr. D. J. Price that Mr. Walter E. Rees be elected. Carried unanimously.

*****

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      At a Committee Meeting held at the Crown Hotel on Tuesday April 10/88 Present. Messrs. H. Langford (in the Chair)        J. G. Jones, J. G. Davies, E. G. Jones, D. Watkins, J. Williams, H. A. Bowen & W. E. Rees.

     Resolved.

                             That the Balance Sheet of the Yorkshire Tour be passed.

     Moved by Mr. Langford, seconded by Mr. J. G. Davies & carried unanimously that the Secretary write to the Wortley Club Leeds thanking them for the excellent manner they received the Neath Team when on Tour.

     Proposed by Mr. D. Watkins & seconded by Mr. J. Williams that the following gentlemen act as a sub committee to arrange matches for the ensuing season.

     Mr. H. Langford, Mr. J. G. Davies, Mr. H. A. Bowen & Mr. Walter E. Rees. (Carried)

signature of  J. G. Davies

Chairman.

 *****

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     At the Annual General Meeting of the Neath Football Club held at the Council Chamber on Friday June 29/88.  Mr J. G. Davies in the Chair.

     The late secretary (Mr A. R. Thomas) read the Balance Sheet which showed a deficit of ₤4.15.10.

     Proposed by the chairman and seconded by Mr. J. Williams.  Resolved that the Balance Sheet be passed.

      Moved by Mr. S. F. Elt, seconded by Mr D. N. Rees & unanimously carried that the Hon. H. C. Bruce be invited to become President.

     Moved by Mr. T. Griffiths seconded by Mr. David Davies. Resolved that Mr. H. A. Bowen be re-elected Captain.

     Moved by Mr. Hopkins.

     Seconded by Mr. D/H. Davies.

     Resolved that Mr. A. Brooks be Vice Captain.

Moved by Mr. Russell Thomas & seconded by Mr. H. Denby.  Resolved that Mr. S. F. Elt be re-elected Captain of 2nds.

*****

signature of  J. G. Davies

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At a Committee Meeting held at the Crown Hotel on Tuesday evening July 3^rd

     Present Mr. J. G. Davies in the Chair.

   “    A. Russell Thomas.

   “    H. A. Bowen.

   “    H. Langford.

   “    D. N. Rees.

   “    H. Mills.

   “    A. Tench.

   “    R. Jones

     The Gentlemen who were deputed to see Mr. Bevan with a view to arrange terms for the holding of a Football Context & Sports on Aug 6^th in one of his Fields reported their interview with that gentleman when.

     It was decided that the Sec write Mr. Bevan accepting his terms of ₤5 for the use of his field & an intimation was to be sent to Mr Thos Jones of the Bird-in-hand.

     Mr. Bevan’s offer of a prize of ₤2.2.0 & Mr. Thos Jones’ of ₤1.1.0 are gratefully accepted.

The following events were agreed to take place on bank holiday

1. football tournament                                     

2. Bicycle ride                                                   

3. Football race  (upon the Langford's idea)  

4. "         "               (  "  Mr Price " )                  

5. Drop kick                                                       

6. Place kick at goal                                          

Decided that secretary advertise for tenders for a field to play on the occasion and that Mr  H. A. Bowen of Llenelli to asked to act as sole arbitrators in the tournament.

It was moved by Mr a r Thomas seconded by Mr Hugh Price and unanimously resolved that it is not within the province of the captain to arrange matches either foreign or otherwise. 

Moved by Mr A. Russell Thomas &seconded by Mr H Price resolved that 10/6 should be the minimum qualifications of V.P's of the club & that each name should be proposed and seconded and passed by the committee meeting.

 signature of  J. G. Davies

At a committee meeting held at the Crown Hotel Thursday 5th July 1888 Present; J. G. Davies (chair man) A. Tench, H. Langford, H. A Bowen, D. N. Rees, H. Mills, Ben Griffiths, W. E. Rees  

After the Secretary explication in reference to the resolution preventing the captain corresponded with any team it was unanimously resolved to rescind the motion & with this exception the chairman proposed and Mr Rich Jones seconded that the minutes of the last meeting be confirmed.

it was unanimously decided to her the following prizes at the football sports to be held at bank holiday.

1st.   A six s side football contest, 1st prize 1 gold & 5 silver medals value ₤7.10.0 

2nd prize  6 football badges value ₤4.10.0

2.   One mile bicycle race (upon to heath & ???)    ,1st prize value  ₤1.10.0     ,2nd value 10/-

3.    football race (??? up ball). 1st value  ₤1.1.0  ,2nd  10/-  ,3rd  5/-  this race to be confined to football players only.

4.    football obstacles race. 1st  ₤1.1.0  ,2nd  ₤10/-  ,3rd 5/-

5.  Long drop kick ,1st a football value 10/6  ,2nd  1 pair of rugby football boots value 

6.  place kick for goal   ,1st value ₤1.1.0   ,2nd 10/6

The secretary ??? ??? an application be had received from the Skewen club for fixture Mr N. A. Bowen moved & Mr Davies  Mr W E Rees seconded that the secretary reply regretting their ??? to comply with their request (carried)

  signature of  J. G. Davies

At a committee meeting held at the Brown Hotel on Wednesday 11th July 1888 Present: Mr J G Davies (in the chair), Messrs A R Thomas, Hugh Price, H A Bowen, A Trench, Rich Jones, D H Rees, A Brooks & W E Rees. 

The chairman moved & Mr Rich Bower seconded that the minutes of the last meeting he confirmed (carried)

Mr Hugh Price proposed & Mr R R Thomas seconded that ??? to the great interest  Mr Langford takes in the club, it is their ??? that he should be elected a committee man (???) 

Subject to the approval of the next general meeting. it was proposed by Mr A. R. Thomas seconded by Mr Richards (daily leaders) he engaged to advertise the sports at a fee of 5/- & that 3000 ??? be printed.

Mr A R Thomas propose 7 Mr J G Davies seconded that the following be asked to act as stewards at the sports.

Mr ???	Mr Browning	Mr A H Bartlett
" A???	" J Hempthorne	" H Flower
" Walter Evans	" J Williams	" Mat Whittington

& that ??? the above should have bands & the committee rosettes (carried)

It was unanimously resolved that the following gentlemen be asked to referee 

1st Mr E S Richards 

2nd Mr G L Morris     

3rd Mr Goldsworthy  

It was proposed by Mr A R Thomas seconded by Mr Rich Jones & carried unanimously that in future this committee considers the Anchor Hotel their headquarters.

signature of  J. G. Davies

At a committee meeting held at the Anchor Hotel on Monday Evening 16 July 1888. Present Messrs A Russell  Thomas (in the chair) J G Davies, A Tench, Hugh Price, H A Bowen, H Mills, H Langford, B Griffiths, R Jones, W E Rees. 

Mr J G Davies proposed & Mr H A Bowen seconded that the minutes of the last meeting be confirmed (carried).

Moved by chairman and seconded by Mr H Langford that the secretary be instructed to make  an application to the cricket club requesting fields for the next season. 

it was proposed by Mr Langford & seconded by Mr h Mills that five police be engaged for the sports. moved by Mr A Russell Thomas seconded by Mr price that 200 1/- tickets & 500 6d to be printed.

Proposed by Mr Langford seconded by Mr J G Davies & carried unanimously that the sum of ₤4.10.0 be spent in medals as per particulars given below.  

1 Gold medal (size of a penny) & closed in case ₤2.0.0

5 silver   "   "   "    "  ₤2.10.0

either the following inscription NEATH FOOTBALL CLUB.

Annual tournament,   1st prize Aug 6th 1888, reverse side a man in the act of kicking a football.

Moved by Mr J G Davies seconded by Mr Langford, resolved that miss Eleanor Rees be asked to present the prizes. 

Moved by Mr H A Bowen & seconded by Mr A Tench, resolved failing miss Rees miss Rowland be asked. 

Proposed by Mr Davies seconded by Mr A Russell Thomas & carried that the Mayor of Neath (John Rees Esq) be invited to act as president of the sports.

Mr A R Thomas proposed & Mr J G Davies seconded that Mr Walter E Rees be instructed to provide 3 pairs of sandwich boards for the use of the club (carried)

signature of  J. G. Davies

A committee held at the Anchor Hotel on Tuesday evening July 24th. 

Present: Mr A R Thomas (in the chair) Messrs Hugh Price, D Rees, A Trench, H Mills, Ben Griffiths, H A Bowen, H Langford, R Jones, A Brooks & W E Rees.

Moved by Mr H A Bowen seconded by Mr H Mills that the minutes of the last meeting be confirmed. (carried)

It was proposed by Mr Hugh Price seconded by Mr H Bowen that a unanimously carried that Mr J Jones Price of greenway be a vice president of the club.

Moved by Mr Langford seconded by Mr D Rees that the lowest tender ??? the 2nd Welsh ??? for ₤4.0.0 be accepted (carried)

Proposed by Mr H A Bowen, seconded by Mr Griffiths & carried that the next committee meeting as well as the drawing for the tournaments to be held on Wednesday next at seven p.m. 

Proposed by Mr H Rees seconded by Mr H Bowen that the sports be advertised in ??? South Wales, Bridgend ???

signature of  J. G. Davies

At a committee held at the Anchor Hotel on Wednesday August 1st 1888.

Present Mess H A Bowen (in the chain) A Tench, H Langford, R Jones, A Jones, A Brooks & W E  Rees.

Moved by Mr H Langford & seconded by Mr Rich Jones that the minutes of last meeting be confirmed (carried)

Proposed by Mr Walter & E Rees seconded by Mr H Bowen that Dr Thomas rather be added to the list of  V.P's of the club.

it was moved by MR Langford & seconded by Mr Rich Jones that two Matches be arranged with ??? for the ??? season.

Moved by Mr A Tench & seconded by Mr H Langford that 250 programmes be printed for sports.

proposed by Mr H A Bowen & seconded by Mr A Tench that in the picking up race the ball should be picked up three times, the same to be placed in line with the 25 flags & to be raw in heats of 4's 

signature of  J. G. Davies

At a meeting held at the Anchor Hotel on Tuesday evening 14th Aug 1888. 

Present Mess Hugh Price proposed &Mr Langford seconded that the minutes of the last meeting be confirmed.

Proposed by Mr W E Rees & seconded by Mr Hugh Price that councillor W B Trick be added to the list of V.P's. (carried)

It was proposed by Mr A Trench seconded by Mr Hugh Price that Mr Rich Jones be compelled to take down the posts in bird-in-hand field after sports.

It was unanimously resolved that Mr J G Davies be deputed to inform the secretary of cricket club that they would consent only to give ₤15 for the use of the field without liabilities & not according to terms offered by Mr Fred Hempthorne. 

signature of  J. G. Davies

At a committee held at the Anchor Hotel on Wednesday Aug 27th at p.m. 

Present Mr H A Bowen (in the chair)

" J G Davies          

" W H Mills             

" B Griffiths            

" A Tench              

" W E Rees           

Moved by Mr Griffiths seconded by 

Mr A Tench & unanimously resolved that Mess H A Bowen & Walter E Rees represent the Neath club an the annual meeting of the Welsh football union to be held at the Angel Hotel Cardiff on Friday next. 

It was proposed by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr H A Bowen that Mr C H Elt be elected captain of the 2nd XV subject to approval by general meeting   (carried)

Proposal by Mr A Tench seconded by Mr B Griffiths that the drawings for the

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Neath (Mills’) Challenge Cup take place at the Anchor Hotel on Saturday Sept 22^nd at 4 p.m.

     It was unanimously resolved that the following gentlemen be added to the list of V.P.’s   

Mr. D. L Davies

Mr. Ernest Jones

"     David Rees 

“   R. A. Browning

“   J. B. Davies    

     Mr J. G. Davies (who was deputed to see the Secretary of the Cricket Club with reference to the Field) gave the result of his interview with Mr Fred Kempthorne who Mr. H. A. Bowen proposed & Mr. Mills seconded that the terms offered by the Cricket Club be not accepted. (Carried)

      Mr. H. A. Bowen proposed & Mr. Mills seconded that Mr. Jones’ offer of the Bird in Hand field from Sept to April for the sum of five pounds be accepted. (Carried unan^ly).

                                                         signature of  H. A. Bowen  

   Chairman

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 At a Committee Meeting held at the Anchor Hotel on Monday evening Sept 16^th /88 at eight of hr.

      Present Mr H. A. Bowen (in the chair)

“   Rich Jones.

“   C. H. Elt.

“   B. Griffiths.

“   W. E. Rees.

     Moved by Mr. Griffiths, seconded by Mr. C. H. Elt & carried that the Minutes of last meeting be confirmed.

     It was unanimously resolved that the following gentlemen be added to the list of VP’s  

Moved by Mr. C. H. Elt & seconded by Mr. Rich Jones that the terms offered by Newport be accepted (Carried)

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    Proposed by Mr. Griffiths & seconded by Mr. C. H. Elt that the Subscription be raised to 3/- (Carried)

     Proposed by Nr Griffiths, seconded by Mr. Elt that only the Secs be allowed to sell Membership Cards. (Carried)

     Proposed by Mr Elt & seconded by Mr Griffiths that the expenses incurred at Newport on Saturday (in addition to Railway fares) do not exceed Thirty Shillings. (Carried)

 signature in pencil of J Griffith Davies

Chairman

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      At a Committee Meeting held at the Anchor Hotel on Monday Oct 8^th at eight of hr.

     Resolved that the Minutes of last meeting be confirmed.

   Moved by the Chairman seconded by Mr. H. Langford & unanimously carried that Mr. Walter R. Evans be elected Vice Captain.

     Proposed by Mr. H. A. Bowen & Seconded by Mr. H. Langford that the offer of 4/- made by the Secretary of Melyn Rovers for the goal posts be accepted (Carried)

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 Moved by Mr. H. Langford & Sec by Mr. H. A Bowen that the sum of two pounds each be paid Messrs. J. G. Davies & N. H. Mills on A/c of their bills.

     Proposed by Mr. H. A. Bowen Seconded by Mr. D. N. Rees that Mr. E. G. Jones be the recognised Umpire for the Neath 1^st XV (Carried).

     Moved by Mr. D. N. Rees, seconded by Mr. N. H. Mills, that in future the Umpire’s fare for the 2^nd XV be paid by the Club.

      Proposed by Mr. J. G. Davies, sec by Mr H. Langford that this meeting be adjourned to Monday next at 8 p.m.

 signature of  J. G. Davies

Chairman

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      At a Committee Meeting held at the Anchor Hotel on Monday evening Oct 15/88.

     Present Mr. J. G. Davies (in the Chair)   

       Resolved that the minutes of last meeting be confirmed.

      Moved by Mr D. N. Rees seconded by Mr. B. Griffiths that Mr. C. H. Elt’s offer of Flags be accepted. (Carried)

      Proposed by Mr. Langford sec by Mr. D. N. Rees & carried that the train fares of the men (should they turn up) be paid in future.

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 Proposed by Mr. J. G. Davies & seconded by Mr. Walter Evans that the Secretary be instructed to thank Mr. Wilkins for acting as Referee in lt Saturday’s match.

      Proposed by Mr Langford sec by Mr. D. N. Rees that the team be provided with a tea at Bridgend on Saturday next at 1/6 each.

      Moved by Mr. Langford & seconded by Mr. H. A. Bowen that in future the Committee Meetings of this Club be held at the Bird-in-Hand (Carried unan^ly).

 signature of  J. Griffith Davies

Chairman

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 At a Committee Meeting held at the Bird-in-Hand on Monday evening Oct 22/88 at 8.30.

     Present Mr. J. G. Davies (in the Chair)

     It was resolved that the Minutes of last meeting be confirmed.

     Proposed by Mr. Langford & seconded by Mr. D. N. Rees that the Secretaries be instructed to forward the list of players to the South Wales Daily News and Western Mail for every match & that telegrams be also sent at the close of game giving the result.

 Moved by Mr. H. Langford & seconded by Mr. A. Tench that the Secretary write the Editors of the Western Mail & South Wales Daily News

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 asking them to be good enough to request their Neath Reporters to attend & report all matches played at Neath.

      Proposed by Mr. H. Langford, sec^d by Mr. H. Albert Bowen & unanimously carried that a Special Meeting of this Com^tee be called at an early date for the purpose of arranging a Dance to be held at the Gwyn Hall in aid of the funds of the Neath Football Club.  Mr. L. Griffith Davies to be Hon. Sec.

   Chairman

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At a Committee Meeting held at the Bird-in-Hand on Monday evening Oct 29^th at 8.30 p.m.

     Present  Mr. Hugh Price (in the chair)  

     It was unanimously resolved that the minutes of the last meeting be confirmed.

     Moved by Mr H. A. Bowen & seconded by Mr. H. Langford that the Secretaries be instructed to provide ten flags for the touch line.

     Proposed by Mr. H. A. Bowen seconded by Mr. H. Langford that the Neath Institute take the place of the Neath Artillery in the first round of the Mills Local Cup Matches.

signature of  Alfred Tench 

Chairman

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      At a Committee Meeting held at the Bird-in-Hand on Monday evening Nov 5/88 at 8.30 p.m.

Moved by Mr A Tench seconded by Mr Rich Jones that the secretary be instructed to cancel the return match with Pen y Graig

Proposed by Mr H Langford & seconded by 

Mr W H Mills that the Neath Crusaders be allowed the use of the Neath football grounds

for their Thursday match provided they become members of the club.

All gate money to become the property of the Crusaders, on the condition they find their own ball.

Moved by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr H Langford that Mr C Elt refunded the 5/6 paid by him in fares for last Saturdays match without creating a president. 

 

Proposed by Mr J G Davies seconded by Mr Rich Jones that the remaining half of the fare ??? in 

the ??? & Neath 2nd match be ??? out of the ??? of the gate.

Moved by Mr W E Rees & seconded by Mr Rich Jones that the following gentlemen act as the dance Com^tee 

with power to add Mess J G Davies (how sec), H Langford, H A Bowen, Hugh Price, W R Evans & A Tench.

signature of  J. G. Davies

Chairman  

At a meeting held at the bird-in-hand on Monday evening Nov 12th at 8:30 

Present:  Mr D H Rees (in the chair)

Moved by Mr W E Rees & seconded by  the Mr H Langford that the dance be left entirely in the hands of Mr Davies. 

signature of  J. G. Davies

Chairman

At a committee meeting held at Mr J G Davies shop on Monday Nov 19/88 at 8:30 pm.

Present Mr J G Davies (in the chair)

Moved by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr B Griffiths, that complaints 

having come to hand in reference to Mr G D Trick's conduct towards the referee at Penarth

on Saturday last, the captain be instructed to see Mr Trick in order to prevent a repitition of the same.

proposed by Mr Davies & seconded by Mr H Langford  that this committee wish to express their heartfelt sympathy with Mr Thos Jones  & family (bird-in-hand) in their present sore bereavement.

Proposed by Mr Griffiths & seconded by Mr Rich Jones that a guarantee of 

₤15 be offered to the Maori football team to play at Neath 

  signature of J. G. Davies

Chairman

A committee meeting held at the Bird-in-hand on Monday evening Nov 26th at 8:30pm

Present: Mr J G Davies (in the chair)

Moved  By Mr J G Davies, seconded By Mr H Langford that the secretary (Mr H E Rees) 

be instructed to see Mr Besant in reference to the railway fare & route to Hull on Saturday next &

to make the necessary requirements.

Moved by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr D H Rees that Mr Ben Griffiths be allowed a ₤1.00 as Part of his expenses in acting as umpire at hull

signature of  J. G. Davies

Chairman

At a committee Meeting Held at the Bird-in-hand on Monday Dec 3rd at 8:30.

Present: Mr D H Rees (in the chair) 

 Proposed by Mr Langford  seconded by Mr D H Rees That a cheep tea be provided for the team at the close of the bridgend  match to be held at the bird-in-hand.

Proposed by Mr H Albert Bowen, seconded by Mr H Langford that the Melyn rovers play the Llansamlet juniors for the Mills local cup on Christmas day at 11am

Moved by H Langford & seconded by Mr Mills that the secretary be instructed to write Mr Mullock (welsh rugby union)

in reference to minor point for local club matches.

Proposed by Mr H Langford & seconded by Mr H Mills that Mr Joseph Markem be paid the sum of 13/8

 being half his railway fare to Hull on Saturday last.

Mr Walter E Rees moved an a amendment which was seconded by Mr C H Elt that neither 1/2 railway fares nor hotel expenses be paid by the club. as  the mover, seconded & Mr A Tench only  voted for the amendment it was declared lost by six votes to three. 

signature of  J. G. Davies

Chairman

At a committee meeting held at Mr J G Davies on Tuesday Dec 11th at 7pm

Present: Mr J G Davies (in the chair)

Moved by the chairman & seconded by Mr A Tench that Mr H E Rees be instructed to go to Swansea to see Mess Jones & ??? respecting Saturday match at Cardiff. 

Proposed by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr A Tench that the matter of requisition for general meeting be held over to the next committee meeting.

Mr Davies Rees having stated that Mr E G Jones would be unable to umpire on on Saturday next, it was resolved upon the motion of Mr J G Davies seconded by Mr C H Elt that Mr H E Rees takes his place.

signature of  Alfred Tench 

Chairman    

At a committee meeting held on Thursday Dec 17/88 at the bird-in-hand at 8:30.

Present Mr A H M Tench (in the chair), Mess H A Bowen, C H Elt, H Langford,

 J G Davies, H Price, Rich Jones, Ben Griffiths & H E Rees.

Moved by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr H Langford, that Mr Markham's reply be added to the resolution passed at a committee held on Dec 3rd to the effect that he refuses accept any money form the club in part payment of his expenses to hull.  

Moved by Mr H Langford seconded by Mr C H Elt that ??? containing the results of matches played away be in future sent to Mr J G Davies & placed in the window, 

signature of  Harry Langford 

Chairman  

At a committee meeting held at the bird-in-hand on Monday Jan 7/89.

Moved by the chairman & seconded by Mr B Griffiths that Mr R P Cox be asked to under take the getting up of a ??? concert at the gwyn hall (to be held at an early date) in aid of the Neath football club.

Proposed by Mr H A Bowen & seconded by Mr H Langford that Mr Tench be requested to head a ??? for Mr Price.  

  signature of  Harry Langford 

Chairman  

 At a committee meeting held on Monday Jan 14/89 at the bird-in-hand 

Present: Mr H Langford (in the chair)

Proposed by Mr Tench, seconded by Mr H Mills, that ??? committee then or any other person be allowed inside the wires in future

signature of  Harry Langford 

Chairman  

At a committee meeting held at the bird-in-hand on Monday Jan 21/89 at 8:30pm.

Present: Mr H Langford (in the chair)

Moved by Mr H Langford & seconded by Mr rich Jones that the Captain & XXX (withdrawn) be asked to resign.

Proposed by Mr Tench and seconded by Mr Langford that a special general meeting of the club be called at the town hall on friday evening next at 8pm

At a special general meeting of the members held at the Guild hall on Friday evening Jan 25/89 at 8pm 

Mr J G Davies in the chair

Proposed by Mr H Langford seconded by Mr Rich Jones Carried unanimously that taking into consideration the disastrous Yorkshire four arranged by the captain without previous consultation with the Comtee & seeing that the captain and the secretary are unable to  work well together this general meeting here assembled calls upon the captain to resign.

Moved by Mr Langford  & seconded by Mr Jones that Mr Hugh Price be elected vice-capt in the place of Mr R Evans, to which an      

Amendment was proposed by Mr D Williams & seconded by Mr Frayne that Mr Fred Mc Craith be appointed Upon being put to the meeting the amendment was declared carried.

upon the motion of Mr Walter Nicholas & seconded by Mr S Elt. The following appointment were confirmed.

Mr H Langford as committee men & 

Mr C H Elt as capt of the 2nd XV

proposed by Mr W P Nicholas, seconded by Mr D ??? & carried unanimously that ???to a paragraph which appeared in the Bridgend ???? of that day a vote of  compliances in the secretary & committee be passed in order to contradict the report. 

Mr E J Jones proposed &Mr A Russell Thomas seconded that a vote of thanks be given to the chairman.   

At a comtee meeting held on Thursday 28/89 at the bird-in-hand 

Present: Dr E V Pegge (in the chair)

Mr J G Davies moved & Mr Ben Griffiths seconded that with the exception of the words acting 

secretary ((XXX which were) to be ???) the minutes of last meeting be confirmed.

Proposed by Mr J G Davies & seconded  by Mr B Griffiths that Mr E G Jones referee in cup match on Saturday next. 

Moved by Mr Davies seconded by Mr Langford that the hon secretary be instructed to send  post cards in future to all the players.

Moved by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr Fred Mc Craith that the secretary be instructed to refund the 6/2 due to the two Pontardawe men.

It is proposed by Mr Tench & seconded by Mr C H Elt that the following gentlemen act on the

 sub-committee to carry out the arrangements of the Gwyn Hall.  

signature of  A. Russell Thomas.

At a comtee meeting at the bird-in-hand on Thursday Feb 4/89.

Mr A Russell Thomas in the chair 

Moved by Mr J G Davies, seconded by Mr Councillor trick that the meeting tenders their hearty thanks to C Evens Thomas Esq of the ??? for his handsome donation of two ??? towards the funds of the club.

Proposed by Mr H Mills & seconded by Mr H Langford that the match Melyn V Institute be allowed to play on the Neath club ground subject to a satisfactory arrangements (as to the 2nd XV match) being made by the secretary  

signature of  J. G. Davies

Chairman  

At a committee held at the bird-in-hand on Monday Feb 18/89 at eight o'clock

Present: E ??? Pegge (in the chair)                                                                      

Mr F Mc Craith	Mr Rich Jones
"   J G Davies	"   B Griffiths
"   A Tench	"   H Langford
"   C H Elt	"   H E Rees

Moved by Mr J G Davies & secretary by Mr A Tench that the secretary be instructed 

to write Mr H A Bowen  (the late capt ) with reference to the three jerseys intrusted to his care for the Llannelli match.

signature of  E V Pegge

Chairman

At a comtee meeting held at the bird-in-hand on Monday evening Feb 25 at 8.30

Present.

Dr E ??? Pegge (in the chair)

Mr H Langford	Mr A Russell Thomas
"   A Tench	"   Ben Griffiths
"   J G Davies	"   Fred Mc Craith
"   Hugh Price	"   Rich Jones
"   C H Elt	"   H E Rees

Moved by Mr Hugh Price sec by Mr A Tench that the Following gentlemen be asked to referee in next Saturday's cup match (Skewen V Institute) 1st Mr  Jenkins ???,  2^nd  Mr Card, 3^rd  Mr D ???, 4^th Mr C S Anthony

Proposed by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr Hugh Price that the best thanks of this meeting be given mess^ers Charles Stacey & John Hill (market) for thier donations towards the funds of the club.

Proposed by Mr J G Davies & seconded By Mr Rich Jones that the proceeds of the Smoking concert be distributed amongst the persons that lent money for the Yorkshire tour.

signature of  E V Pegge

Chairman

A committee meeting held at the bird-in-hand on Monday March 4/89 at 8.30pm

Present: Dr E ??? Pegge (in the chair)

Moved by Mr H E Rees & seconded by Mr Fred Mc Craith that Mr J G Davies be deputed to see Mr Ed Morgan with reference to the  overcharge in the ??? a/c.   

Proposed by Mr J G Davies & seconded by Mr H Langford that Mr Charles Stacey be

 given the printing in future.

Moved by Mr H Langford & seconded be Mr Fred Mc Craith that the secretary be instructed to pay the amount due to Mr H H Mills Jeweller ??? ₤1.18.6.

Proposed by Mr H Langford & seconded by Mr Rich Jones that the secretary write the Skewen club with reference to the cup xxx being returned at once in order that it may be placed in either John Lewis or shop yr Den's window.

signature of  E V Pegge

Chairman