Another club whose early history is still evolving is North Perth.
At the time of the foundation of an association and competitive play, there is veiled reference to croquet being played North of Perth. Who this is is not clear. Royal Park was north of Perth and did not participate in the early steps, it could be them or it could be the North Perth club.
In an article from 1906 titled, “A Progressive Municipality” it states that the council possesses two reserves – one in Farmer Street, known as Woodville Reserve, where a large number of trees have been planted, and the formation of bowling greens, tennis court and croquet lawn is in progress.
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/38823478/3343593
1906 – North Perth looking east and west from Clifton Street.
General view of the city looking from North Perth
North Perth was founded in 1908 in Namur St on the then Woodville Estate, as was the trend, Bowls and Tennis appear nearby.
North Perth adopted Brown and Silver as it’s club colours in 1909, changing these later to Two Blues and Brown.
There was no early pennant success but it all kicked off in the 30’s and 40’s, it appears they may have become the home of many good players.
1933-34 A1 Pennant Team – From back – Mrs Richardson, Mrs Bevis, Mrs M Clayton, Mrs J Taylor
The 50’s are quiet but again they have much success mid 60’s with constant mentions thereafter.
Indeed 63, 64 and 65 break Hollywood’s incredible run of success.
A Grade 1924, 1932, 1933, 1937, 1940, 1948, 1949, 1963, 1964, 1965.
B Grade 1921, 1947, 1954
C Grade 1952
A2 in 1934, 1939
A3 in 1937
C2 in 1953
Div 1 in 1991
Div 2 in 1977, 1986
Div 3 in 1976
Div 4 in 1980
Div 5 in 1978
North Perth was forced to relocate in order to survive and became Forrest Park in 2004
The old venue is now tennis courts and a small reserve, play area, with housing encroaching right up to the boundary fence.
I always find it interesting how they focus so heavily on the fashion of the day in these early newspaper articles.
Mrs Cadd chose a green and maize patterned voile frock with a green hat to tone – and yes, I had to look up voile!
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/32811440/2822258
Life Members: Mrs Harring: Mrs Richardson: Mrs Wight
Past Presidents: Mrs Millington 1933-34 Mrs Clayon 1930-31
