The History of Watford St. Mary's

In 1898 West Herts Club and Ground absorbed Watford St. Mary’s into their ‘Football Section’ and renamed the club Watford Association FC. This is the story of the St. Mary’s club(s) and how they grew to be the town’s second best team.

When we talk of Watford St. Mary’s, we don’t talk about one club, but three.

It is believed that the first incarnation, St. Mary’s Club, was probably formed in 1885 and originated from the St. Mary’s Boys and Girls National Schools. The Hon. Randolf Capell, second son of the Earl of Essex, was the Treasurer of the School Board from 1884 and probably had a hand in the formation of the club. In any case, he actively encouraged the use of his estate, Little Cassiobury, to be used as their home ground.

Early St. Mary’s team photo

St. Mary’s first documented game was played away to St. George’s 2nd Eleven on 7th November 1885. Although outmatched, the Saints managed to hold on for a nil-nil draw. From this shaky start ‘The Saints’ grew in statue, going unbeaten for the rest of the season while playing friendlies against local school and ‘scratch’ teams.

As the players grew, so did their skill and reputation. It was the tail end of the 1888/89 season that St. Mary’s started to get themselves noticed. Although they were still playing other Watford based teams exclusively, their results were impressive – scoring 27 goals in the last 4 games of the season.