2. THE EARLY YEARS

For the 1889–90 season, local insurance agent Arthur Harrold was appointed Secretary and solicitor John Oliver Cash was elected captain. The latter was a fine athlete and brave player: he would serve the Club for many years. It was around this time that CCRFC picked up a nickname: the Chickens!

By 1893, the ratio of matches won to those lost had improved steadily — as had the amount of spectators per game. In February of that year, the editor of the Wincanton, Castle Cary & Bruton Monthly Review was moved to write 'The Club is very popular and large numbers visit the ground on Saturday afternoons to witness the matches.'

The 1894–95 season will always occupy a prominent position in the Club's history. Eight matches won, five drawn and only one defeat — with only three tries against, throughout the entire season.

The late 1890s and early 1900s saw the team, more often than not, putting in a respectful performance on match days. In September 1911, gate money of 3d was requested for the first time, along with contributions from players and linesmen. It was now thought necessary to employ a policeman at all home matches to control an unruly crowd.

However, the Saturday afternoon revelry was cut short in December 1914: the Great War had intervened and the Club was disbanded.
 

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