| Administrative History | The first match for Matlock Cricket Club actually took place in May 1877. A 'gentlemen's XI' played the 'players' team which consisted of 13 men. The result is unknown but after the game all concerned then celebrated the event with an evening meal in Matlock. The club were the first tenants of a ground in Causeway Lane, Matlock, which was privately owned.
In 1911 the local football team (later to become Matlock Town FC) moved across the road from their pitch on Hall Leys Park, because of regular flooding there. The Cricket Club moved from where the football pitch is now located, and developed the adjacent meadow which is their present ground.
Owing to the First World War, it would appear that cricket of any sort ceased in Matlock and the club remained dormant until 1920 when it was re-formed. Around 1928 the female owner of the land died and in her will it was specified that the Matlock Sports & Athletic Club would take over ownership, on the basis that the land would continue to be used for cricket and other sports.
The existing wooden Tea Room Pavilion, still in use today, was constructed in 1890 at a cost of £120, though it originally served as the changing rooms and the score box. It was renovated in the mid 1980's when water and electricity facilities were installed. In recent years, in common with many other clubs, Matlock has developed its facilities and obtained a Grade A ground status.
Source: http://www.matlockcricketclub.com/ |
| Custodial History | Donated to Derbyshire Record Office in October 2007. |