To mark the Rugby League World Cup competition matches being held in Hull, the Hull History Centre is hosting a weekend of back to back Rugby League events:

Saturday 16th November, 9:30am-12pm, Hull History Centre: a Rugby League "Show and Tell" event. Fans are invited to bring along their treasured rugby league memorabilia and talk to Rugby League historians about their items. They can also view the centre's Rugby League exhibition and take part in a question and answer session with Rugby league VIP guests.

Although the centre holds some Rugby League records, it is looking to fans to help fill some of the collections gaps, especially those relating to local Rugby League archives. During the event, fans will be able to record their earliest Rugby League memories, talk about their favourite player and most memorable match, and contribute to a Stories Board for fellow fans of all ages to read and enjoy.

There will also be a chance to meet and talk to Rugby League legends including Alan Burwell, Colin Hutton and Johnny Whiteley. The event will include a "question and answer session" with Rugby League Historian, Professor Tony Collins of De Montfort University, Leicester, who will be on hand to answer questions on the history of the clubs. Refreshments are provided.


Sunday 17th November, 2pm-4pm, Ferens Art Gallery: Mitchell and Kenyon Early Rugby League Film Show. This is a rare opportunity to view vintage film footage including scenes of our Rugby teams in Edwardian times. A silent film pianist will perform an accompanying musical score. [iPlease call 01482 317500 to book a ticket.[/i

This is an unparalleled opportunity for Rugby fans and those interested in social history, to learn more about the great game of Rugby in the time of our great grandparents at a rare and unique film screening of the famous Mitchell & Kenyon Edwardian silent films. These films, on loan to Hull History Centre from the BFI (British Film Institute), offer a remarkable and fascinating insight into the social history of Rugby League, through film clips of the earliest surviving footage featuring Edwardian Hull. The films also include games played by the major northern league sides including: St Helens, Warrington, Oldham, Runcorn, Leeds, Halifax, Salford, Wigan, Dewsbury, Hunslet, Batley and Manningham.

In true Edwardian cinema style, the audience will get the chance to experience the film screenings complete with piano musical accompaniment by renowned professional silent film pianist, Cyrus Gabrych.

Professor Tony Collins, Director of the International Centre for Sports History and Culture at De Montfort University, Leicester, will lead a discussion and question and answer session following the screening.


Everyone is welcome to attend these free events. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.