Hi, this is my first time in this forum.
I'm representing Small Heath boxing club also known as Pat Benson Boxing Academy. We have just recently received funding from the Heritage Lottery to research the history of boxing in Birmingham. We have Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery as our heritage partner and will be holding an exhibition in August 2018. I am on the search for photographs and items that could be included to this exhibition. Any boxer must have achieved a boxing accolade such as a championship and of course be rooted in Birmingham also old photo's of pubs and factories that had boxing attached to them.
The project
The history of boxing in Birmingham can be formally traced back to the early 1900's. By exploring the characters and establishments across Birmingham that have played a pivotal role in the development of boxing in the city, we will uncover a rich history and heritage of communities and individuals. These individuals like Alf Greenfield, Bunny Johnson, Johnny Prescott and others have helped shape and nurture the sport from the 1800’s.
The project will explore the development of boxing in Birmingham from an activity that took place in inner city pubs e.g. Hobsmoor, Railway Club, Custard House and The Garrison and factories e.g. Lucas, Austin Rover Worsley, Morris Commercial.
We will also look at the involvement of schools such as: St. Michael's, Bishop Challoner and St. Mary's in developing and championing the sport during the 20th century and in particular the strength of the "Schoolboy Championships" in carrying and attracting new interest and participation in boxing.