On Thursday, 30th January 2025, a commemorative plaque was unveiled at 50 Yeaman Place, near the site where The Watsonian Football Club’s rich history began with its very first game.
On 30th January 1875, The Watsonian Football Club played its inaugural game of rugby union against St George’s at Bainfield, a farm then located at Yeaman Place in Polwarth, Edinburgh. While the game ended in a draw, it laid the foundation for a club that has since achieved remarkable success. Over 150 years, Watsonians has consistently competed at the pinnacle of Scottish rugby, producing national team players across all levels.
The unveiling captured the Watsonians spirit and the community that the club has created over the last 150 years with many members in attendance including: Honorary President, 96-year-old Dennis Carmichael, Men’s 1XV Captain, Neil Irvine-Hess, Women’s 1XV Co-Captain, Freya Walker, Watsonians highest capped international player, Scottish and British & Irish Lions legend, Scott Hastings and two of the youngest members of the Watsonian Warriors and Watsonian Wildcats mini section, Alexander Wright and Amelia Boyle.
Scott Hastings shared his thoughts on the plaque unveiling and The Watsonian Football Club’s 150th year: “Today was a truly special occasion, standing near the very spot where The Watsonian Football Club played its first game 150 years ago.
“It’s incredible to reflect on how far the club has come, from that first match to becoming such a cornerstone of Scottish rugby. Seeing members of all generations come together – young players, lifelong supporters, and legends of the game – was a really great moment. This plaque is a fitting tribute to our history.”
The unveiling of the plaque marks the start of The Watsonian Football Club’s 150th anniversary celebrations, with further events taking place throughout the year including a gala dinner on 21st November 2025 at the O2 Academy with Sir Ian McGeechan and Sir Chris Hoy as guests of honour.
The club has also released a maroon and white limited-edition jersey to mark the important milestone which features its unique crest and the words, ‘ex corde caritas’, the Latin motto which means “love from the heart”.
Additionally, this year will see the club publishing a 150-year history of Watsonians book in partnership with Peter Burns of Polaris Publishing.
Alistair Hamilton, General Manager at The Watsonian Football Club commented: “The unveiling of the commemorative plaque at Yeaman Place is a proud moment for everyone connected to The Watsonian Football Club.
“It marks the site where our journey began in 1875 and celebrates 150 years of history, tradition, and community. This milestone is not just about looking back but also about bringing together players, members, and supporters – past and present – throughout the year.
“With a host of exciting events planned, including our gala dinner and the release of a commemorative book, we look forward to celebrating the history and bright future of Watsonians.”
2025 is another important chapter in the 150-year history of The Watsonian Football Club. To find out more about The Watsonian Football Club please visit:
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