Rovers’ incredible 150 year history brought to life in new exhibition

Opening on Thursday 10 April, a new exhibition at Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery will showcase historic silverware, Premier League glory and BRFC’s rich legacy as founding members of the Football League over 150 illustrious years. 

From packed terraces and last-minute winners, to that unforgettable Premier League triumph and personal matchday memories, Blackburn Rovers fans are at the heart of a special exhibition marking the club’s 150th anniversary.

Opening on Thursday 10 April at Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery – just yards from where the club was founded in 1875 – the brand new Rovers 150 exhibition brings together treasured memories, rare and well-loved memorabilia, and historic footage to capture what it truly means to support our beloved club.

Rather than a traditional history lesson, the exhibition draws on unique fan memories to tell the story of the club’s past and present through the voices of those who have lived through the triumph and heartache.

From the club’s first FA Cup wins and the unforgettable Premier League triumph to childhood memories of walking through Ewood Park’s turnstiles and the roar of a packed stadium, the exhibition showcases moments that have defined generations of fans.

Among the highlights are the iconic Premier League trophy, match-worn shirts from club legends, and rarely-seen Edwardian match footage commissioned by showman George Green for his travelling fair. A special audio installation by sound artist and lifelong Rovers fan Paul Nataraj brings together the voices of countless supporters, sharing their personal moments of following the club.

Caroline Wilkinson, Curator of History at Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery, said:

We’ve had an unbelievable response from the fans, who have shared some really fantastic Rovers memories for Paul to bring together in this amazing communal piece. We think the passion and pride will really resonate, whether you love Rovers or just love football.

With free entry for all visitors, the exhibition is a chance for fans to relive their favourite moments, share their own memories, and celebrate 150 years of passion, pride, and unforgettable matchdays.

Rebecca Johson, Arts and Heritage Manager for Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:

This exhibition celebrates not just the club’s achievements but also its deep connection to the town and the evolution of football itself. We’re delighted to host this exhibition, especially in our own milestone year, just a stone’s throw from where Rovers were first formed. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or simply curious about the club’s evolution, there really is something for everyone.

As founding members of the Football League, Rovers dominated the early years of English football, winning three consecutive FA Cups between 1884 and 1886, and five in just eight years. The exhibition features the FA Cup Shield, awarded to Rovers for the three consecutive FA Cup victories, as well as England international Herbie Arthur’s winners’ medals from the late 1800s.

The exhibition is also packed with memories from the thrilling Premier League winning 1994/95 season, when Alan Shearer and company – managed by Sir Kenny Dalglish and backed by visionary owner ‘Uncle’ Jack Walker – led Rovers to the pinnacle of English football on a dramatic final day of the season at Anfield. Among the highlights from that era are the Premier League trophy itself, which will be part of the exhibition at select times, as well as memorabilia from the likes of title-winners Colin Hendry and Tim Flowers, among others.

Other notable items include a match-worn shirt from the 1928 FA Cup-winning season and memorabilia from the 1960 FA Cup final. The 1987 Full Members’ Cup, won after a Colin Hendry strike in the final against Charlton Athletic, is also set to feature, alongside contemporary items from stars such as Roque Santa Cruz, Morten Gamst Pedersen, and Christopher Samba.

Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and a life-long Rovers supporter, said:

Blackburn Rovers have been a huge part of my life since I was a lad, and I know how much this club means to our community. It’s woven into the very fabric of our town.

The Council is proud to support BRFC’s 150th anniversary celebrations, honouring the club’s rich heritage. Football in Blackburn and Darwen has always been special, and this exhibition at our fantastic Museum is a fitting tribute. There’s so much to see, from the club’s earliest days to that unforgettable Premier League triumph. I’d encourage everyone to visit.

 

Blackburn Rovers’ 150th Anniversary Committee are working on a range of memorable events to celebrate the historic milestone, starting with pre-season friendlies this summer, an involvement with this summer’s National Festival of Making, and hopefully ending with a music event at Ewood Park next year, as well as a birthday celebration on or around November 5. The club will update supporters on other events and initiatives being worked on by the 150th Anniversary Committee in due course.

Lynsey Talbot, Head of Operation at Blackburn Rovers Football Club, said:

This exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for fans old and new to connect with the club’s incredible history.

This is a milestone year for us and we are so looking forward to celebrating with the fans. Our club is built on the people and the community – and this exhibition is such a fantastic celebration of that. We’re thrilled to be working with Blackburn Museum to bring these memories to life.

The exhibition opens on Thursday 10 April at Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery, Museum Street, Blackburn and runs until June. Admission is free.