Following the installation of RAMM’s Exeter Chiefs exhibition, an exciting discovery was made! 150 years of Exeter Rugby Club: From Local Heroes to European Champions showcases memorabilia from the eventful and successful 150-year span of the rugby club. After hearing news of the exhibit, RAMM was contacted by Tim Lee about a poster he owns, produced in 1897 by his family’s printing business. Sydney Lee Printers created a series of the print in five colours – including gold.
The poster itself depicts the fixtures for the Exeter and Oaks team for the season. Also featured are advertisements for various products and establishments in the area such as tobacco, honeydew, mineral water, bars and high street shops.
Strong rugby and sporting connections run in the family as well as the history of the business, particularly with Anthony Sydney Edward Lee, Tim Lee’s father. Tony, as he was also known, was captain of the Exeter Chiefs for 4 years from 1967-1971, a great honour considering captains are usually appointed for 2 or 3 years – as well as continuing with the tradition of printing for the business. This team photo (below) was taken on 28th November 1980, after Tony Lee was elected chairman of the club, before the game against Llanelli as part of the official opening of floodlights at the old County Ground Stadium in St Thomas.
Tony Lee later went on to be the director of Exeter Rugby Club Ltd from 1997-2003 as well as the company secretary from 1997-2000. A keen member of the sporting community in his hometown of Exeter, Tony was also the director of the Devon County Athletic Ground Company from 1993-2003 as well as the South West representative to the Rugby Football Union for 30 years up until his death in 2003.
What interesting finds!
Get a glimpse of even more memorabilia, pictures, and souvenirs at the exhibition, ending Sunday 28th August.
