- 1908 Hartlepools United formed, representing the boroughs of Hartlepool and West Hartlepool.
- 1916 Zeppelin bombs Victoria Ground, destroying the main stand. Despite the German government’s refusal to pay compensation, a temporary wooden stand is erected a year later.
- 1928 Player complaints about training in winter are rebuffed by manager Bill Norman, who rolls naked in the snow.
- 1957 Pools come back to level from 3-0 down to the Busby Babes in the FA Cup in front of 17,426, but lose 4-3. Busby describes it as “the most exciting match I’ve ever watched”.
- 1965 Brian Clough appointed. Two years later, team built, Clough and assistant Peter Taylor head for Derby.
- 1968 Promoted in third. Name changes to Hartlepool AFC.
- 1977 After nine years of fans ignoring the change, “United” is reinstated but, stubbornly, not the missing “s”.
- 1984 Cunning use of glossy brochure helps secure record-busting 14th re-election
- 1985 The temporary wooden stand is demolished after a mere 68 years.
- 1991 Promoted in third. Manager Cyril Knowles tragically misses the end of the season due to a terminal illness.
- 1992 Goalless for 1,227 minutes, a record.
- 2002 Chris Turner’s team lose in play-offs.
- 2003 Promoted in second place. Best ever try, but still no silverware. Again the man who built the team isn’t there.
What other gems would you include?! Let us know on Twitter or Facebook and we’ll update in the near future.
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