West Brom vs Derby County revisited 125 years on as The Hawthorns opens up to fans on anniversary
West Brom have never looked back since they welcomed Derby County to the Hawthorns for the first time.
There was scepticism when West Brom appointed Ryan Mason as head coach. Coaching the Baggies would have been his first-ever permanent managerial position.
However, he continues to prove the doubters wrong. West Brom’s 1-0 win over Blackburn Rovers kicked off the Championship season. While Albion bagged their second victory of the season against Wrexham.
Disappointment later struck when West Brom were handed a 1-1 draw against Portsmouth at home. The game saw Mason shown a red card and watch their later victory over Stoke City from a distance.
Their record now means that the Baggies are unbeaten in the Championship this season. But as Mason continues to hunt for history, Albion will be taking a trip down memory lane.
West Brom drew with Derby County 125 years ago
The Hawthorns first opened up for business 125 years ago when West Brom hosted Derby County during a Football League fixture.
The Black County venue made history as the first Football League ground to be built in the 20th Century. It opened its doors on 3 September 1900 after four months of construction.
Once opened, The Hawthorns could hold around 35,000 spectators, which was an upgrade on their former home, Stoney Lane, which held around 20,000 fans.
Albion’s first game at the stadium ended in a 1-1 draw against Derby in front of a crowd of around 20,000 supporters. Derby forward Steve Bloomer opened the scoring for his side, with Chippy Simmons equalising for the Baggies and scoring their first in their new home.
- Albion’s next game against Aston Villa ended in defeat
- There were an estimated 35,417 fans in the stadium, but an estimated 15,000 outside
The Hawthorns has since experienced several highs and lows with West Brom, and will now turn 125 years old as the Baggies look to continue making history at the stadium.
West Brom to host an open house at the Hawthorns
As reported by Lewis Cox via X on Tuesday, 2 September, there will be an open house at The Hawthorns on 3 September for the Shrine’s 125th anniversary.
This will include a free, self-guided tour and access and information to brilliant historical images and club memorabilia.
The event will open at 8am and close and 8pm in the East Stand.
After that, the Baggies will face Derby County on Saturday, 13 September, over a century since they first welcomed them to their home.
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