Our History

The Longdon Club has been a cherished part of the local community for over a century. Here’s a look back at the milestones that helped shape our story:

1919 – The Beginning

In May 1919, Sir Villiers Forster and Lady Forster proposed building a “Parish Room” as a Memorial Hall in Longdon. While the Parish Council appreciated the gesture, they declined to take ownership due to concerns about ongoing maintenance costs.

Later that year, six local working men, led by Tod Jones, proposed that the hall be registered instead as a Men’s Club. They argued it would offer great benefit to the community and could be self-supporting. The idea was accepted, using a similar arrangement as the Armitage Club.

1920 – The Longdon Club Is Born

In January 1920, the Longdon Club and Institute was officially formed.

1920s–1930s

  • The Longdon Women’s Institute (W.I.) held meetings at the Club until they acquired their own hall.

  • In 1926, during the General Strike, local schoolchildren were served donated hot meals at the Club by volunteers.

1930–1935

  • In March 1930, Sir Villiers Forster passed away, leaving the Memorial Hall to Dame Mary Forster and appointed trustees.

  • In 1934, Dame Mary sold the Memorial Hall to Captain William Walford, who became its permanent trustee.

  • By 1935, the Club was deemed well-managed and officially vested under the Official Trustee of Charity Lands Commission.

1939–1945 – Wartime Efforts

The Club supported the war effort by raising funds for the War Comfort Fund.

1940s–1970s

  • The Club remained a vital part of the village, supporting school use and community activities until the new village school was built.

  • In 1950, the Club purchased the field behind the premises.

  • The Old People’s Committee and other groups like the Pre-school and Cub Scouts regularly used the Club.

  • In 1970–71, an extension was added for new toilets and a utility room.

1980s–2000s

  • The Club hosted events like the 1981 royal wedding celebration for Prince Charles and Lady Diana.

  • In 2006, major renovations included the iconic black-and-white frontage, funded entirely by members and donors.

  • By this time, Club membership had reached 140.

  • The Ladies Dominoes team won local league trophies between 2009 and 2013.

  • Community fundraising, like the 2009 quiz night for St. James Church, became a Club tradition.

2010s

  • Joined Lichfield & District CVS in 2011, becoming part of a wider support network.

  • Hosted the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Village Picnic in 2012 and ran charity events including a disco for the British Heart Foundation.

  • Installed Sky Sports in 2017.

  • Launched our official website in 2018, bringing the Club online.

2020s – Resilience and Renewal

  • In March 2020, the Club closed temporarily due to COVID-19.

  • During lockdown, with the help of HS2 community funding, major upgrades were carried out: bar relocation, new toilets, insulation, heating system, windows, doors, and resurfaced car park.

  • Reopened in July 2021 with a refreshed look and a new name: The Longdon Club.

  • The Club was once again at the heart of the community—hosting live music, birthdays, and a beloved Bonfire Night celebration.