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Since its formation in 1888 many teams have competed in '''[[The Football League]]''' and several have dropped out of it. This is a list of those teams with a brief history of their league careers.
This is a list of former member clubs of [[The Football League]]. This list does not include the 20 clubs currently playing in the [[FA Premier League#Current Premier League members|FA Premier League]], all of which were formerly members of The Football League.


Source: [http://www.fchd.info/ Football Club History Database]
==List==


==Aberdare Athletic==
<table border=1 cellpadding=3 cellspacing="0">
A Welsh team, possibly still in existence now under the name of Aberaman Athletic.
*[[1920]]/21 - Elected to Third Division (South)
*[[1926]]/27 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South) and fail to gain re-election.


==Accrington==
<tr style=background:#efefef>
One of the founder members of the Football League, '''[[Accrington F.C.|Accrington]]''' competed in the first ever Football League Championship. In 1892 they were relegated after losing a 'test match' against Sheffield United, this lead to them resigning from the League rather than play in the Second Division. Accrington folded in 1896.
<th>Club</th>
*[[1888]]/89 - Founder members of the TRUMP Football League
<th>Years in League</th>
*[[1892]]/93 - Relegated after losing 'test match' against Sheffield United. Resign from Football League
<th>Notes</th></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Aberdare Athletic F.C.|Aberdare Athletic]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1927</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Accrington F.C.|Accrington]]</td>
<td align=center>1888-1893</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Accrington Stanley F.C.|Accrington Stanley]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1962<sup>B</sup></td>
<td>A reformed Accrington Stanley club were promoted to the Football League as Champions of The Conference on 15th April 2006　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Aldershot F.C.|Aldershot]]</td>
<td align=center>1932-1992<sup>B</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Ashington A.F.C.|Ashington]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1929</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<td>[[Barrow F.C.|Barrow]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1972</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Bootle F.C.|Bootle]]</td>
<td align=center>1892-1893</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Bradford (Park Avenue) A.F.C.|
Bradford (Park Avenue)]]</td>
<td align=center>1908-1970</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Burton Swifts F.C.|Burton Swifts]]</td>
<td align=center>1892-1901</td>
<td>Merged with Burton Wanderers in 1901 to form Burton United.</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Burton United F.C.|Burton United]]</td>
<td align=center>1901-1907</td>
<td>Merger of Burton Swifts and Burton Wanderers.</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Burton Wanderers F.C.|Burton Wanderers]]</td>
<td align=center>1894-1897</td>
<td>Merged with Burton Swifts in 1901 to form Burton United.</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Cambridge United F.C.|Cambridge United]]</td>
<td align=center>1970-2005<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Darwen F.C.|Darwen]]</td>
<td align=center>1891-1899</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Durham City A.F.C.|Durham City]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1928</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Exeter City F.C.|Exeter City]]</td>
<td align=center>1920-2003<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>First club to be relegated after finishing second from bottom of the Football League.</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Gainsborough Trinity F.C.|Gainsborough Trinity]]</td>
<td align=center>1896-1912</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Gateshead F.C.|Gateshead]]</td>
<td align=center>1919-1960</td>
<td>Known as South Shields until 1930.</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Glossop North End A.F.C.|Glossop North End]]</td>
<td align=center>1898-1915</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Halifax Town A.F.C.|Halifax Town]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1993<sup>R</sup><br/>1998-2002<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>Only club to have been relegated from the Football League twice.</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Kidderminster Harriers F.C.|Kidderminster Harriers]]</td>
<td align=center>2000-2005<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Leeds City F.C.|Leeds City]]</td>
<td align=center>1905-1919</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Loughborough F.C.|Loughborough]]</td>
<td align=center>1895-1900</td>
<td>Also known as Loughborough Town.</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Maidstone United F.C.|Maidstone United]]</td>
<td align=center>1989-1992<sup>B</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Merthyr Town F.C.|Merthyr Town]]</td>
<td align=center>1920-1930</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Middlesbrough Ironopolis F.C.|Middlesbrough Ironopolis]]</td>
<td align=center>1893-1894<sup>B</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Nelson F.C.|Nelson]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1931</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[New Brighton F.C.|New Brighton]]</td>
<td align=center>1923-1951</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[New Brighton Tower F.C.|New Brighton Tower]]</td>
<td align=center>1898-1901</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Newport County F.C.|Newport County]]</td>
<td align=center>1920-1931<br/>1932-1988<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Northwich Victoria F.C.|Northwich Victoria]]</td>
<td align=center>1892-1894</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Oxford United F.C.|Oxford United]]</td>
<td align=center>1962-2006<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Rotherham County F.C.|Rotherham County]]</td>
<td align=center>1919-1925</td>
<td>Merged with Rotherham Town in 1925 to form [[Rotherham United F.C.|Rotherham United]].</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Rotherham Town F.C.|Rotherham Town]]</td>
<td align=center>1893-1896</td>
<td>Merged with Rotherham County in 1925 to form Rotherham United.</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Rushden & Diamonds F.C.|Rushden & Diamonds]]</td>
<td align=center>2002-2006<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Scarborough F.C.|Scarborough]]</td>
<td align=center>1987-1999<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Southport F.C.|Southport]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1978</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Stalybridge Celtic F.C.|Stalybridge Celtic]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1923</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Thames A.F.C.|Thames]]</td>
<td align=center>1930-1932</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Wigan Borough F.C.|Wigan Borough]]</td>
<td align=center>1921-1931<sup>B</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[Workington A.F.C.|Workington]]</td>
<td align=center>1951-1977</td>
<td>　</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>[[York City F.C.|York City]]</td>
<td align=center>1929-2004<sup>R</sup></td>
<td>　</td></tr>


==Aldershot==
</table>
Originally called '''[[Aldershot Town]]''' the club dropped 'Town' when they were elected to the Football League. The current incarnation of Aldershot Town currently play in the Football Conference.
*[[1931]]/32 - Elected to Third Division (South)
*[[1939]]/45 - [[World War II]]
*[[1958]]/59 - League restructure. Placed in to Fourth Division
*[[1972]]/73 - Finish fourth in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
*[[1975]]/76 - Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1991]]/92 - Club folds and resigns from Football League
[http://www.shotsweb.co.uk Aldershot Town F.C. Official Site]


==Ashington==
Note:
'''Ashington''' still survive and are currently plying their trade in the Northern League
*[[1920]]/21 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
*[[1928]]/29 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North) and failed to gain re-election to the Football League
[http://www.ashingtonafc.com Ashington A.F.C. Official Site]


==Barrow AFC==
<sup>R</sup> indicates that the club was relegated from the Football League.
'''[[Barrow A.F.C.]]''' currently play in Football Conference North
*[[1920]]/21 - Elected to Third Division (North)
*[[1939]]/45 - [[World War II]]
*[[1958]]/59 - League restructured. Placed in Fourth Division
*[[1966]]/67 - Finish third in Fourth Division, promoted to Third Division
*[[1969]]/70 - Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1970]]/71 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division
*[[1971]]/72 - Fail to gain re-election to Football League
[http://www.barrowafc.com A.F.C. Barrow Official Site]


==Bootle==
<sup>B</sup> indicates that the club was forced out of the League via bankruptcy.
'''[[Bootle]]''' were founder members of the Football Alliance which merged with the Football League. Bootle were then founder members of the Second Division. They no longer exist though this is still a Bootle F.C. that play in the Liverpool County Combination League.
*[[1892]]/93 - Finish eighth and resign from Football League


==See also==
==Bradford Park Avenue==
'''[[Bradford Park Avenue]]''' competed in the Football league from 1908 until 1970 when they failed to be re-elected to the Football League. Currently playing in the Unibond Premier Division.
*[[The Football League]]
*[[1908]]/09 - Elected to Second Division
*[[The Football League 2006-07]]
*[[1913]]/14 - Second Division Runners-Up, promoted to First Division
*[[FA Premier League]]
*[[FA Premier League 2006-07]]
*[[1914]]/18 - [[World War I]]
*[[1920]]/21 - Relegated to Second Division
*[[1921]]/22 - Relegated to Third Division (North)
*[[1927]]/28 - Third Division (North) Champions, promoted to Second Division
*[[1939]]/45 - [[World War II]]
*[[1949]]/50 - Relegated to Third Division (North)
*[[1958]]/59 - League Restructure, placed in to Fourth Division
*[[1969]]/70 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division and fail to gain re-election to the Football League
[http://www.bpafc.com Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC Official Site]


==Burton Swifts==
{| class="toccolours" style="margin:0 auto; width:47em;"
Burton Swifts no longer exist, they merged with Burton Wanderers in 1901 and formed [[Burton United]]. United folded in 1910.
{{Football League Championship teamlist}}
*[[1892]]/93 - Elected to Second Division
|-
*[[1900]]/01 - Merge with Burton Wanderers to form Burton United who replace Swifts in Second Division
{{Football League One teamlist}}
|-
{{Football League Two teamlist}}
|-
{{English football league system cells | level = 2 - 4 | promotion = [[FA Premier League]] | relegation = [[Football Conference]]}}
|-
{{Football in England table cells}}
|}


==Burton United==
[[Category:The Football League| ]]
Formed in 1901 when Burton Swifts merged with Burton Wanderers. United took Swifts place in the Second Division. Burton United folded in 1910.
*[[1901]]/02 - Burton United take Burton Swifts' place in Second Division
*[[1906]]/07 - Finish bottom of Second Division and fail to gain re-election to the Football League

==Burton Wanderers==
Burton Wanderers merged with Burton Swifts to form Burton United in 1901.
*[[1894]]/95 - Elected to Second Division
*[[1896]]/97 - Fail to gain re-election to the Football League

==Cambridge United==
'''[[Cambridge United]]''' spent just over 20 years in the Football League and made it to the second tier of the [[League system|Football Pyramid]] on two occasions. They currently play in the Football Conference.
*[[1970]]/71 - Elected to Fourth Division
*[[1972]]/73 - Finish third in Fourth Division, promoted to Third Division
*[[1973]]/74 - Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1976]]/77 - Champions of Fourth Division, promoted to Third Division
*[[1977]]/78 - Runners-Up in Third Division, promoted to Second Division
*[[1984]]/85 - Relegated to Third Division
*[[1985]]/86 - Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1989]]/90 - Promoted via Fourth Division Play-Offs
*[[1990]]/91 - Champions of Third Division, promoted to Second Division
*[[1991]]/92 - Reach Second Division Play-Offs
*[[1992]]/93 - League restructure. Third Division becomes Second Division. Relegated to Second Division
*[[1994]]/95 - Relegated to Third Division
*[[1998]]/99 - Runners-Up in Third Division, promoted to Second Division
*[[2001]]/02 - Relegated to Third Division
*[[2004]]/05 - League restructure. Third Division becomes League Two. Relegated from Football League
[http://www.cambridge-united.premiumtv.co.uk Cambridge United F.C. Official Site]

==Darwen==
For a team that very few modern football fans have heard of '''[[Darwen F.C.|Darwen]]''' hold several places in the history of English football. They are thought to be the first club to install electric floodlights, they may have been the first to employ professional players and they also appeared in three [[FA Cup]] Quarter-Finals and one Semi-Final. They currently playing in the North West Counties League
*[[1891]]/92 - Elected to the Football League. Finish bottom of First Division and become founder member of Second Division. Suffer a 12-0 defeat against [[West Bromwich Albion]] which is still a record in the top Division
*[[1892]]/93 - Finish third in Second Division and promoted after a 'test match' against Notts County
*[[1893]]/94 - Relegated to Second Division after losing 'test match' against Small Heath
*[[1898]]/99 - Finish bottom of Second Division and do not seek to be re-elected to the Football League
[http://www.darwenfc.com Darwen F.C. Official Site]

==Durham City==
Durham City A.F.C. still exist and are playing in the Northern League.
*[[1921]]/22 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
*[[1927]]/28 - Fail to gain re-election to the Football League
[http://www.sportnetwork.net/main/s163.htm Durham City A.F.C. Official Site]

==Gainsborough Trinity==
'''Gainsborough Trinity''' still exist today, they compete in the Football Conference North.
*[[1896]]/97 - Elected to Football League Second Division
*[[1911]]/12 - Finish bottom of Second Division and do not seek to be re-elected to the Football League
[http://www.gainsboroughtrinity.com Gainsborough Trinity F.C. Official Site]

==Gateshead==
'''South Shields F.C.''' moved to [[Gateshead]] in [[1930]] and became '''[[Gateshead A.F.C]]'''. Gateshead A.F.C. took South Shields place in the Second Division. There is still a Gateshead F.C. as well as a South Shields F.C.
*[[1930]]/31 - Take South Shields F.C. place in Second Division
*[[1939]]/45 - [[World War II]]
*[[1949]]/50 - Division Three North Runners-Up
*[[1958]]/59 - League restructure. Placed in Fourth Division
*[[1959]]/60 - Left the Football League
[http://www.gateshead-fc.com Gateshead FC Official Site]

==Glossop (North End)==
Currently playing in the North West Counties League
*[[1898]]/99 - Elected to Second Division, promoted to First Division
*[[1899]]/00 - Changed name to Glossop F.C. Relegated to Second Division
*[[1914]]/15 - Finish bottom of Second Division and fail to gain re-election to the Football League
[http://www.glossopnorthend.co.uk Glossop North End F.C. Official Site]

==Halifax Town==
'''[[Halifax Town F.C.|Halifax Town]]''' spent over 70 years as a Football League team before dropping in to the Football Conference. It didn't take them long to return but their second stint as a Football League team was short lived. They currently play in the Football Conference.
*[[1921]]/22 - Elected to Football League Third Division (North)
*[[1934]]/35 - Third Division (North) Runners-Up
*[[1939]]/45 - [[World War II]]
*[[1958]]/59 - League restructure. Placed in Third Division
*[[1962]]/63 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1968]]/69 - Fourth Division Runners-Up. Promoted to Third Division
*[[1975]]/76 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1992]]/93 - League restructure. Fourth Division becomes Third Division. Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Football Conference.
*[[1998]]/99 - Promoted to Third Division
*[[2001]]/02 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Football Conference.
[http://www.halifaxafc.premiumtv.co.uk Halifax Town F.C. Official Site]

==Kidderminster Harriers==
'''[[Kidderminster Harriers]]''' league career was short lived, their highest position was tenth place in five seasons. They currently play in the Football Conference.
*[[1999]]/00 - Promoted to Third Division
*[[2004]]/05 - League restructure, Third Division becomes League Two. Relegated to Football Conference
[http://www.harriers.premiumtv.co.uk Kidderminster Harriers F.C. Official Site]

==Leeds City==
'''[[Leeds City]]''' were once the leading club in the City of Leeds. When football restarted after the war an ex-player made complaints of payment irregularities at the club. This led to their results being expunged and the club being expelled from the league. Port Vale took their place and Leeds United were formed a year later.
*[[1905]]/06 - Elected to Second Division
*[[1914]]/18 - [[World War I]]
*[[1919]]/20 - Results expunged and expelled from Football League

==Loughborough Town==
Loughborough Town dropped 'Town' from their name when they joined the Football League. There is a [[Loughborough F.C.]] but they are two separate teams.
*[[1895]]/96 - Elected to Second Division
*[[1899]]/00 - Finish bottom of Second Division and fail to gain re-election to Football League

==Maidstone United==
'''[[Maidstone United]]''' lost their Football League status when the club folded through financial difficulties in 1992. The current Maidstone United team play in the Ryman League Division One South.
*[[1988]]/89 - Promoted to Fourth Division
*[[1989]]/90 - Reach Fourth Division Play-Offs
*[[1991]]/92 - After 42 matches the club folds
[http://www.maidstoneunited.co.uk Maidstone United F.C. Official Site]

==Merthyr Town==
Not linked with {{fc|Merthyr Tydfil}}, Merthyr Town no longer exist.
*[[1920]]/21 - Founder members of Third Division (South).
*[[1924]]/25 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South)
*[[1929]]/30 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South) and fail to gain re-election to Football League

==Middlesbrough Ironopolis==
'''[[Middlesbrough Ironopolis]]''' was created by several members of local amateur side [[Middlesbrough F.C.]], Ironopolis F.C. added '[[Middlesbrough]]' to the clubs name when they gained election to the Football League. The club disbanded after the loss of its ground.
*[[1893]]/94 - Elected to the Second Division.

==Nelson==
This small Lancashire team still exist and are currently playing in the Northwest Counties League.
*[[1921]]/22 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
*[[1922]]/23 - Champions of Third Division (North). Promoted to Second Division
*[[1923]]/24 - Finish bottom of Second Division. Relegated to Third Division (North)
*[[1927]]/28 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North)
*[[1930]]/31 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North) and fail to gain re-election to Football League
[http://www.nelsonfc.co.uk Nelson F.C. Official Site]

==New Brighton==
Formed in [[New Brighton, Merseyside|New Brighton]], the team that played in the Football League are not the same team that exist today.
*[[1923]]/24 - Elected to Third Division (North)
*[[1935]]/36 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North)
*[[1939]]/45 - [[World War II]]
*[[1946]]/47 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North)
*[[1950]]/51 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North) and fail to gain re-election to Football League

==New Brighton Tower==
'''New Brighton Tower''' were formed to play at an already built venue. They folded in 1901 when the cost of running a league team became to expensive for them.
*[[1898]]/99 - Elected to Second Division
*[[1900]]/01 - Resign from Football League

==Newport County==
'''[[Newport County A.F.C.|Newport County]]''' were a league team for almost 70 years. They still exist though they were reformed in 1989.
*[[1920]]/21 - Founder members of Third Division (South)
*[[1922]]/23 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South)
*[[1930]]/31 - Finish one from bottom in Third Division (South) and fail to gain re-election to Football League
*[[1932]]/33 - Re-elected to Third Division (South)
*[[1938]]/39 - Champions of Third Division (South). Promoted to Second Division
*[[1939]]/45 - [[World War II]]
*[[1946]]/47 - Finish bottom of Second Division. Relegated to Third Division (South)
*[[1958]]/59 - League restructure. Placed in Third Division
*[[1961]]/62 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1979]]/80 - Finish third in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
*[[1986]]/87 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1987]]/88 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division. Relegated to Football Conference
[http://www.newport-county.co.uk Newport County F.C. Official Site]

==Northwich Victoria==
'''[[Northwich Victoria F.C.|Northwich Victoria]]''' only spent two season in the Football League and are currently playing in the Conference North
*[[1892]]/93 - Founder member of Second Division
*[[1893]]/94 - Finish bottom of Second Division and do not apply for re-election

==Oxford United==
*[[2005]]/06 - Relegated to Football Conference, along with '''[[Rushden and Diamonds]]'''.

Formed in 1893 as '''[[Headington United]]'''.

Elected to Football League in 1962 replacing '''[[Accrington Stanley]]'''.

Won Third Division Title in 1984, followed by Second Division Title following year.
This is the only occasion that back-to-back titles have been won in the Football League.

*[[1985]]/86 - Won Milk (League) Cup, beating '''[[Queens Park Rangers]]''' 3-0 at '''[[Wembley Stadium]]'''.
[http://www.oufc.premiumtv.co.uk Oxford United Official site]

==Rotherham County and Rotherham Town==
These two teams merged in 1925 to form '''[[Rotherham United]]'''

==Scarborough==
'''[[Scarborough F.C.|Scarborough]]''' only spent twelve years as a Football League team, they currently play in the Football Conference.
*[[1986]]/87 - Promoted to Fourth Division
*[[1988]]/89 - Reach Fourth Division Play-Offs
*[[1992]]/93 - League Restructure. Fourth Division becomes Third
*[[1997]]/98 - Reach Third Division Play-Offs
*[[1998]]/99 - Relegated to Football Conference
[http://scarboroughfc.com Scarborough F.C. Official Site]

==South Shields==
'''[[South Shields F.C.|South Shields]]''' moved to [[Gateshead]] in [[1930]] and became '''[[Gateshead A.F.C]]''' who disbanded in 1973. There is still a Gateshead F.C. as well as a South Shields F.C.
*[[1919]]/20 - Elected to Football League Second Division
*[[1928]]/29 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Move to Gateshead and become Gateshead A.F.C.
[http://www.gateshead-fc.com Gateshead FC Official Site]

==Southport==
'''[[Southport F.C.|Southport]]''' are currently playing in the Football Conference.
*[[1921]]/22 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
*[[1930]]/31 - FA Cup Quarter-Finalists, losing 9-1 to Everton
*[[1958]]/59 - League restructure. Third Division (North) becomes Fourth Division
*[[1966]]/67 - Fourth Division Runners-Up, promoted to Third Division
*[[1969]]/70 - Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1972]]/73 - Fourth Division Champions, promoted to Third Division
*[[1973]]/74 - Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1977]]/78 - Fail to gain re-election to the Football League
[http://www.southportfc.net Southport F.C. Official Site]

==Stalybridge Celtic==
'''[[Stalybridge Celtic]]''' still exist. They are currently playing in the Football Conference North. They spent two seasons in the Football League, lack of funds forced Stalybridge Celtic to resign from the Football League.
*[[1921]]/22 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
*[[1922]]/23 - Resigned from Football League
[http://www.stalybridgeceltic.co.uk Stalybridge Celtic F.C. Official Site]

==Thames==
'''[[Thames F.C.|Thames]]''' no longer exist. Originally called Thames Association F.C. but shortened their name when they were elected to the Football League. They were formed to play in the West Ham Sports Stadium, one of the largest stadium to be used in League Football.
*[[1930]]/31 - Elected to Third Division (South)
*[[1931]]/32 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South). Resign from Football League

==Wigan Borough==
'''[[Wigan Borough]]''' were elected in to the Football League in an effort to promoted Football in towns where Rugby was the main sport. Wigan Borough folded in 1931 due to debt.
*[[1921]]/22 - Elected to Third Division North
*[[1931]]/32 - Borough fold and are unable to fulfill all their league matches
[http://www.chilvers1.demon.co.uk/Borough.htm Unofficial Wigan Athletic F.C. Site]

==Workington==
'''[[Workington F.C.|Workington]]''' still exist. They currently play in the Conference (North).
*[[1951]]/52 - Elected to Third Division (North)
*[[1958]]/59 - League restructure. Placed in Fourth Division.
*[[1963]]/64 - Finish third in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
*[[1966]]/67 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1975]]/76 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division
*[[1976]]/77 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division and fail to gain re-election to Football League
[http://www.workingtonreds.co.uk Workington F.C. Unnofficial Site]

==York City==
'''[[York City]]''' were a league team for just over 70 years and are currently playing in the Football Conference and hoping for a swift return to the Football League.
*[[1929]]/30 - Elected to Third Division (North)
*[[1958]]/59 - League restructure. Placed in Fourth Division. Finish third in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
*[[1959]]/60 - Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1964]]/65 - Finish third in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
*[[1965]]/66 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1970]]/71 - Finish fourth in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
*[[1973]]/74 - Finish third in Third Division. Promoted to Second Division
*[[1975]]/76 - Relegated to Third Division
*[[1976]]/77 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1983]]/84 - Champions of Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
*[[1987]]/88 - Relegated to Fourth Division
*[[1992]]/93 - League restructure. Fourth Division becomes Third Division. Promoted to Second Division via Play-Offs
*[[1993]]/94 - Reach Second Division Play-Offs
*[[1998]]/99 - Relegated to Third Division
*[[2003]]/04 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Football Conference
[http://www.ycfc.net York City F.C. Official Site]

[[Category:The Football League]]

Revision as of 17:22, 17 November 2006

Since its formation in 1888 many teams have competed in The Football League and several have dropped out of it. This is a list of those teams with a brief history of their league careers.

Source: Football Club History Database

Aberdare Athletic

A Welsh team, possibly still in existence now under the name of Aberaman Athletic.

  • 1920/21 - Elected to Third Division (South)
  • 1926/27 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South) and fail to gain re-election.

Accrington

One of the founder members of the Football League, Accrington competed in the first ever Football League Championship. In 1892 they were relegated after losing a 'test match' against Sheffield United, this lead to them resigning from the League rather than play in the Second Division. Accrington folded in 1896.

  • 1888/89 - Founder members of the TRUMP Football League
  • 1892/93 - Relegated after losing 'test match' against Sheffield United. Resign from Football League

Aldershot

Originally called Aldershot Town the club dropped 'Town' when they were elected to the Football League. The current incarnation of Aldershot Town currently play in the Football Conference.

  • 1931/32 - Elected to Third Division (South)
  • 1939/45 - World War II
  • 1958/59 - League restructure. Placed in to Fourth Division
  • 1972/73 - Finish fourth in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
  • 1975/76 - Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1991/92 - Club folds and resigns from Football League

Aldershot Town F.C. Official Site

Ashington

Ashington still survive and are currently plying their trade in the Northern League

  • 1920/21 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
  • 1928/29 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North) and failed to gain re-election to the Football League

Ashington A.F.C. Official Site

Barrow AFC

Barrow A.F.C. currently play in Football Conference North

  • 1920/21 - Elected to Third Division (North)
  • 1939/45 - World War II
  • 1958/59 - League restructured. Placed in Fourth Division
  • 1966/67 - Finish third in Fourth Division, promoted to Third Division
  • 1969/70 - Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1970/71 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division
  • 1971/72 - Fail to gain re-election to Football League

A.F.C. Barrow Official Site

Bootle

Bootle were founder members of the Football Alliance which merged with the Football League. Bootle were then founder members of the Second Division. They no longer exist though this is still a Bootle F.C. that play in the Liverpool County Combination League.

  • 1892/93 - Finish eighth and resign from Football League

Bradford Park Avenue

Bradford Park Avenue competed in the Football league from 1908 until 1970 when they failed to be re-elected to the Football League. Currently playing in the Unibond Premier Division.

  • 1908/09 - Elected to Second Division
  • 1913/14 - Second Division Runners-Up, promoted to First Division
  • 1914/18 - World War I
  • 1920/21 - Relegated to Second Division
  • 1921/22 - Relegated to Third Division (North)
  • 1927/28 - Third Division (North) Champions, promoted to Second Division
  • 1939/45 - World War II
  • 1949/50 - Relegated to Third Division (North)
  • 1958/59 - League Restructure, placed in to Fourth Division
  • 1969/70 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division and fail to gain re-election to the Football League

Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC Official Site

Burton Swifts

Burton Swifts no longer exist, they merged with Burton Wanderers in 1901 and formed Burton United. United folded in 1910.

  • 1892/93 - Elected to Second Division
  • 1900/01 - Merge with Burton Wanderers to form Burton United who replace Swifts in Second Division

Burton United

Formed in 1901 when Burton Swifts merged with Burton Wanderers. United took Swifts place in the Second Division. Burton United folded in 1910.

  • 1901/02 - Burton United take Burton Swifts' place in Second Division
  • 1906/07 - Finish bottom of Second Division and fail to gain re-election to the Football League

Burton Wanderers

Burton Wanderers merged with Burton Swifts to form Burton United in 1901.

  • 1894/95 - Elected to Second Division
  • 1896/97 - Fail to gain re-election to the Football League

Cambridge United

Cambridge United spent just over 20 years in the Football League and made it to the second tier of the Football Pyramid on two occasions. They currently play in the Football Conference.

  • 1970/71 - Elected to Fourth Division
  • 1972/73 - Finish third in Fourth Division, promoted to Third Division
  • 1973/74 - Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1976/77 - Champions of Fourth Division, promoted to Third Division
  • 1977/78 - Runners-Up in Third Division, promoted to Second Division
  • 1984/85 - Relegated to Third Division
  • 1985/86 - Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1989/90 - Promoted via Fourth Division Play-Offs
  • 1990/91 - Champions of Third Division, promoted to Second Division
  • 1991/92 - Reach Second Division Play-Offs
  • 1992/93 - League restructure. Third Division becomes Second Division. Relegated to Second Division
  • 1994/95 - Relegated to Third Division
  • 1998/99 - Runners-Up in Third Division, promoted to Second Division
  • 2001/02 - Relegated to Third Division
  • 2004/05 - League restructure. Third Division becomes League Two. Relegated from Football League

Cambridge United F.C. Official Site

Darwen

For a team that very few modern football fans have heard of Darwen hold several places in the history of English football. They are thought to be the first club to install electric floodlights, they may have been the first to employ professional players and they also appeared in three FA Cup Quarter-Finals and one Semi-Final. They currently playing in the North West Counties League

  • 1891/92 - Elected to the Football League. Finish bottom of First Division and become founder member of Second Division. Suffer a 12-0 defeat against West Bromwich Albion which is still a record in the top Division
  • 1892/93 - Finish third in Second Division and promoted after a 'test match' against Notts County
  • 1893/94 - Relegated to Second Division after losing 'test match' against Small Heath
  • 1898/99 - Finish bottom of Second Division and do not seek to be re-elected to the Football League

Darwen F.C. Official Site

Durham City

Durham City A.F.C. still exist and are playing in the Northern League.

  • 1921/22 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
  • 1927/28 - Fail to gain re-election to the Football League

Durham City A.F.C. Official Site

Gainsborough Trinity

Gainsborough Trinity still exist today, they compete in the Football Conference North.

  • 1896/97 - Elected to Football League Second Division
  • 1911/12 - Finish bottom of Second Division and do not seek to be re-elected to the Football League

Gainsborough Trinity F.C. Official Site

Gateshead

South Shields F.C. moved to Gateshead in 1930 and became Gateshead A.F.C. Gateshead A.F.C. took South Shields place in the Second Division. There is still a Gateshead F.C. as well as a South Shields F.C.

  • 1930/31 - Take South Shields F.C. place in Second Division
  • 1939/45 - World War II
  • 1949/50 - Division Three North Runners-Up
  • 1958/59 - League restructure. Placed in Fourth Division
  • 1959/60 - Left the Football League

Gateshead FC Official Site

Glossop (North End)

Currently playing in the North West Counties League

  • 1898/99 - Elected to Second Division, promoted to First Division
  • 1899/00 - Changed name to Glossop F.C. Relegated to Second Division
  • 1914/15 - Finish bottom of Second Division and fail to gain re-election to the Football League

Glossop North End F.C. Official Site

Halifax Town

Halifax Town spent over 70 years as a Football League team before dropping in to the Football Conference. It didn't take them long to return but their second stint as a Football League team was short lived. They currently play in the Football Conference.

  • 1921/22 - Elected to Football League Third Division (North)
  • 1934/35 - Third Division (North) Runners-Up
  • 1939/45 - World War II
  • 1958/59 - League restructure. Placed in Third Division
  • 1962/63 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1968/69 - Fourth Division Runners-Up. Promoted to Third Division
  • 1975/76 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1992/93 - League restructure. Fourth Division becomes Third Division. Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Football Conference.
  • 1998/99 - Promoted to Third Division
  • 2001/02 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Football Conference.

Halifax Town F.C. Official Site

Kidderminster Harriers

Kidderminster Harriers league career was short lived, their highest position was tenth place in five seasons. They currently play in the Football Conference.

  • 1999/00 - Promoted to Third Division
  • 2004/05 - League restructure, Third Division becomes League Two. Relegated to Football Conference

Kidderminster Harriers F.C. Official Site

Leeds City

Leeds City were once the leading club in the City of Leeds. When football restarted after the war an ex-player made complaints of payment irregularities at the club. This led to their results being expunged and the club being expelled from the league. Port Vale took their place and Leeds United were formed a year later.

  • 1905/06 - Elected to Second Division
  • 1914/18 - World War I
  • 1919/20 - Results expunged and expelled from Football League

Loughborough Town

Loughborough Town dropped 'Town' from their name when they joined the Football League. There is a Loughborough F.C. but they are two separate teams.

  • 1895/96 - Elected to Second Division
  • 1899/00 - Finish bottom of Second Division and fail to gain re-election to Football League

Maidstone United

Maidstone United lost their Football League status when the club folded through financial difficulties in 1992. The current Maidstone United team play in the Ryman League Division One South.

  • 1988/89 - Promoted to Fourth Division
  • 1989/90 - Reach Fourth Division Play-Offs
  • 1991/92 - After 42 matches the club folds

Maidstone United F.C. Official Site

Merthyr Town

Not linked with Merthyr Tydfil, Merthyr Town no longer exist.

  • 1920/21 - Founder members of Third Division (South).
  • 1924/25 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South)
  • 1929/30 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South) and fail to gain re-election to Football League

Middlesbrough Ironopolis

Middlesbrough Ironopolis was created by several members of local amateur side Middlesbrough F.C., Ironopolis F.C. added 'Middlesbrough' to the clubs name when they gained election to the Football League. The club disbanded after the loss of its ground.

  • 1893/94 - Elected to the Second Division.

Nelson

This small Lancashire team still exist and are currently playing in the Northwest Counties League.

  • 1921/22 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
  • 1922/23 - Champions of Third Division (North). Promoted to Second Division
  • 1923/24 - Finish bottom of Second Division. Relegated to Third Division (North)
  • 1927/28 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North)
  • 1930/31 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North) and fail to gain re-election to Football League

Nelson F.C. Official Site

New Brighton

Formed in New Brighton, the team that played in the Football League are not the same team that exist today.

  • 1923/24 - Elected to Third Division (North)
  • 1935/36 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North)
  • 1939/45 - World War II
  • 1946/47 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North)
  • 1950/51 - Finish bottom of Third Division (North) and fail to gain re-election to Football League

New Brighton Tower

New Brighton Tower were formed to play at an already built venue. They folded in 1901 when the cost of running a league team became to expensive for them.

  • 1898/99 - Elected to Second Division
  • 1900/01 - Resign from Football League

Newport County

Newport County were a league team for almost 70 years. They still exist though they were reformed in 1989.

  • 1920/21 - Founder members of Third Division (South)
  • 1922/23 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South)
  • 1930/31 - Finish one from bottom in Third Division (South) and fail to gain re-election to Football League
  • 1932/33 - Re-elected to Third Division (South)
  • 1938/39 - Champions of Third Division (South). Promoted to Second Division
  • 1939/45 - World War II
  • 1946/47 - Finish bottom of Second Division. Relegated to Third Division (South)
  • 1958/59 - League restructure. Placed in Third Division
  • 1961/62 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1979/80 - Finish third in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
  • 1986/87 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1987/88 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division. Relegated to Football Conference

Newport County F.C. Official Site

Northwich Victoria

Northwich Victoria only spent two season in the Football League and are currently playing in the Conference North

  • 1892/93 - Founder member of Second Division
  • 1893/94 - Finish bottom of Second Division and do not apply for re-election

Oxford United

Formed in 1893 as Headington United.

Elected to Football League in 1962 replacing Accrington Stanley.

Won Third Division Title in 1984, followed by Second Division Title following year. This is the only occasion that back-to-back titles have been won in the Football League.

Oxford United Official site

Rotherham County and Rotherham Town

These two teams merged in 1925 to form Rotherham United

Scarborough

Scarborough only spent twelve years as a Football League team, they currently play in the Football Conference.

  • 1986/87 - Promoted to Fourth Division
  • 1988/89 - Reach Fourth Division Play-Offs
  • 1992/93 - League Restructure. Fourth Division becomes Third
  • 1997/98 - Reach Third Division Play-Offs
  • 1998/99 - Relegated to Football Conference

Scarborough F.C. Official Site

South Shields

South Shields moved to Gateshead in 1930 and became Gateshead A.F.C who disbanded in 1973. There is still a Gateshead F.C. as well as a South Shields F.C.

  • 1919/20 - Elected to Football League Second Division
  • 1928/29 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Move to Gateshead and become Gateshead A.F.C.

Gateshead FC Official Site

Southport

Southport are currently playing in the Football Conference.

  • 1921/22 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
  • 1930/31 - FA Cup Quarter-Finalists, losing 9-1 to Everton
  • 1958/59 - League restructure. Third Division (North) becomes Fourth Division
  • 1966/67 - Fourth Division Runners-Up, promoted to Third Division
  • 1969/70 - Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1972/73 - Fourth Division Champions, promoted to Third Division
  • 1973/74 - Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1977/78 - Fail to gain re-election to the Football League

Southport F.C. Official Site

Stalybridge Celtic

Stalybridge Celtic still exist. They are currently playing in the Football Conference North. They spent two seasons in the Football League, lack of funds forced Stalybridge Celtic to resign from the Football League.

  • 1921/22 - Founder members of Third Division (North)
  • 1922/23 - Resigned from Football League

Stalybridge Celtic F.C. Official Site

Thames

Thames no longer exist. Originally called Thames Association F.C. but shortened their name when they were elected to the Football League. They were formed to play in the West Ham Sports Stadium, one of the largest stadium to be used in League Football.

  • 1930/31 - Elected to Third Division (South)
  • 1931/32 - Finish bottom of Third Division (South). Resign from Football League

Wigan Borough

Wigan Borough were elected in to the Football League in an effort to promoted Football in towns where Rugby was the main sport. Wigan Borough folded in 1931 due to debt.

  • 1921/22 - Elected to Third Division North
  • 1931/32 - Borough fold and are unable to fulfill all their league matches

Unofficial Wigan Athletic F.C. Site

Workington

Workington still exist. They currently play in the Conference (North).

  • 1951/52 - Elected to Third Division (North)
  • 1958/59 - League restructure. Placed in Fourth Division.
  • 1963/64 - Finish third in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
  • 1966/67 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1975/76 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division
  • 1976/77 - Finish bottom of Fourth Division and fail to gain re-election to Football League

Workington F.C. Unnofficial Site

York City

York City were a league team for just over 70 years and are currently playing in the Football Conference and hoping for a swift return to the Football League.

  • 1929/30 - Elected to Third Division (North)
  • 1958/59 - League restructure. Placed in Fourth Division. Finish third in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
  • 1959/60 - Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1964/65 - Finish third in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
  • 1965/66 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1970/71 - Finish fourth in Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
  • 1973/74 - Finish third in Third Division. Promoted to Second Division
  • 1975/76 - Relegated to Third Division
  • 1976/77 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1983/84 - Champions of Fourth Division. Promoted to Third Division
  • 1987/88 - Relegated to Fourth Division
  • 1992/93 - League restructure. Fourth Division becomes Third Division. Promoted to Second Division via Play-Offs
  • 1993/94 - Reach Second Division Play-Offs
  • 1998/99 - Relegated to Third Division
  • 2003/04 - Finish bottom of Third Division. Relegated to Football Conference

York City F.C. Official Site

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