Well documented Pete- Did you find the 'Little Tin Idol' as the cup was known when
it disappeared in 1895 ? It is a fact that Howard's Vaughton's silversmith firm were asked
to produce a replacement and the Villa had it insured for £200 at the time. Returning to the
continuing history the 1883/4 season was supposed to be an amateur competition but it
was common knowledge the players were being paid. Official legalisation arrived on 20th
July 1885 and players paid 'over the counter' Now we come near to the vintage year of 1886/87as
they won the cup for their first time. Interestingly en route Wolves were met four times and
Glasgow Rangers defeated easily too. At that time the colours were cardinal red and blue STRIPES in front of a crowd of about 11,000 at Wellington Road. The Perry Barr
steam trains were full, At the Old Square the 2.20 train from New Street was besieged
with two extra coaches provided. The ties with Wolves dragged on for seven weeks due
to severe weather delays The next post will cover the first F.A. Cup triumph Link up soon
Wakavilla