Wigan Album

W.J. Sawyer:

William James Sawyer (1870–1940) was born in Liverpool. Better known simply as "WJ" or Bill to friends. He was an accountant who rose to be Secretary of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal Company. He played a prominent role in footballing circles on Merseyside over a 30-year period. He was instrumental in the formation of South Liverpool F.C. He was Hon. Secretary/Manager of Everton F.C. in 1918-19, steering the club through tricky times as World War I ended. He remained on the Everton Board for a decade and chaired the Financial Committee. In 1925 he was involved in bringing Willian "Dixie" Dean to the club. Mr Sawyer also assisted in the formation of Wigan Borough FC (forerunner of Wigan Athletic). In 1933, he became Secretary-Manager at New Brighton A.F.C., guiding them to relative success over a 7 year period.
Known to be a "bon-viveur", he had twin sons in 1895 Daniel and William Herbert. William Herbert later served as President of the Everton Shareholders Federation.
WJ died on June 27, 1940, and is buried in Anfield Cemetery.

The Sawbridges: Charles, William and Henry Dix were all sons of Charles Sawbridge, the well known Wigan butcher and director of The Wigan Trotting & Athletic Company Limited who built Springfield Park

On the committee was my grandad Thomas Gale. He told me fond memories of his time with Wigan Rowing Club, covering many years. He lived on Delph Street. He passed away in 1996. Anyone remember him from the club?