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.
This cast metal figurine of a Suffolk Puch shire horse mounted on a wooden plinth with engarved plate, came to Pittodrie through one of the Dons' most memorable European Ties. Ipswich Town were our opponents in the first round of the UEFA Cup in September 1981. The first leg was played at Portman Road, ending in a 1-1 draw, John Hewitt having score the equalising goal.
Ipswich came north to Pittodrie brimming with confidence. After all they were the current holders of the trophy and regarded Aberdeen as a footballing outpost. Geographically maybe, but the Dons were on the move in both domestic and European football and proceeded to take the Suffolk men apart in the second leg of the tie. Peter Weir, in particular, had a night of nights and turned England international Mick Mills inside out as he rampaged up te left wing, scoring twice to put the tie well beyond Ipswich.
As always, the Clubs exchanged gifts and this figurine remains on show in the Pittodrie boardroom as a reminder of a thrilling and triumphant night.
about the trust
