During the 100-year history of Aberdeen Football Club there have been many trophies, mementos and unique items of memorabilia inherited along the way. Unfortunately, the club don't have enough space to display this fascinating collection at the moment and so many fans are unaware of their existence. Each of the items has a story to tell and some are well known while others are a bit more obscure. All, of course, contribute to the rich history of Aberdeen Football Club.
Over time we hope to populate 'The Aberdeen Collection' section with a large selection of items. We have showcased a number of exhibits her to give you an idea of the treasure trove lurking in Pittodrie. We hope readers will find this fascinating and possibly get a further insight into the history of the club. In fact, one of the items on show here - the Changi Internment Camp Trophy - is a bit of a mystery to everyone at the club and if anyone can shed some light into its background we want to hear from you.
Fred Martin gained his first representative appearance for Scotland in a League XI that played against a Welsh League XI in 24th September 1952. Played in torrential rain, the Scots lost by 3-0 although Fred was reported as having a good game with little or no chance of stopping the goals.
This jersey is the one that Fred wore that night and it has come to the AFC Heritage Trust as the oldest jersey in The Aberdeen Collection.
Some time later, Fred gave the jersey to a young lad to wear whilst plying football and it is remarkable that it has survived almost intact after its heavy usage. Unfortunately, being a piece of woollen clothing, the jersey has shrunk through being washed and is consequently a good deal smaller that when it was worn by Fred in that match in 1952.
Fred played three times for the Scottish League XI as well as on six occasions for the full International side, becoming the first goalkeeper to represent Scotland in the World Cup in 1954.
about the trust
