With some of the best games being played under the lights we go back to the 16th of April 1953 for this picture, the date of the very first game at the Boleyn to be played under the floodlights.We have to say that of all the pictures Nigel Khan has supplied for this so far, this is without question ClaretandHugh’s personal favourite.
You can feel the atmosphere of a packed Upton Park leap off the screen at you – one great image!
The match was a friendly against Spurs and the Hammers ran out 2-1 winners. Our fans of the time didn’t have long to wait for the second game under lights, it was literally just fur days later against Scottish side St Mirren.
Words and pictures from lifelong supporter Nigel Kahn with thanks.
Follow Nige on Twitter @mywhufc
Nigel, is it true that Thames Ironworks played the first floodlight in 1896 at Hermit road? Or is it an urban myth?
On the16th March 1896 an experimental ‘floodlit friendly’ in Thames’ first encounter with Woolwich Arsenal
http://theyflysohigh.co.uk/ground/4546702998
I wonder if Hugh was there 😉
Nice! 😉
Love these pictures,though they make me rather sad to think what will happen to the old girl soon 🙁
I have a completely different opinion to you. I hate our ground and I hate where it is. It just brings back years of bad memories and failure. I would gladly deposit a big pile of poo on the place and help with the demolition. Onwards and upwards I hope!
Well thanks very much for that reply.But im afraid my opinion differs greatly from yours.Would you like me to change my mind on the strength of your comment??,lol.Maybe you should change your name to Miserable Old Git!! 😉
Strange reply. You gave your opinion and I simply gave mine in response. Why would I like you to change your mind on the strength of my comment? Why would anyone expect that? Tosser
I only see one Tosser,the one who wantrs to dump a pile poo on The Boleyn.What a f#cking stupid comment.What are you a Spud.Only explanation for such a w#nk comment.Tosser!!
I think oldgit must be G&S’s love child! Been going to Upton Park for 47 years and will never forget the spine tingling atmosphere on a good day, although not so regular these days. Don’t think we’ll have that at the OS.