Wigan Album

On January 18th it will be 100 years exactly since the great Charlie Seeling signed for Wigan at the Dog and Partridge Hotel. Described as probably the greatest forward in the history of the game by many noted observers, he went on to keep a pub in Wigan (the Roebuck Hotel in Standishgate) after he retired from the game. Tragically killed in a road accident in the 1940's on the eve of returning home to his beloved New Zealand.

I am proud to say that ''Bronco'' was my grandfather.I lived in NZ for 11 years and attended the inaugerations of him into the NZ Sports Hall of Fame and Legends of League.Since he never played league in NZ, it shows how he is regarded over there.Having a famous All Black ''Original'' as a grandfather certainly made life interesting over there.He nad his siblings were actually born in Wanganui.

It was lovely to see my grandfather on Wigan World and to read the comments. Just one point, My grandfather died in 1956 ( May 27th) I know because my mother, Mary Lowe, died with him as did my Nanna, Bessie.

I have this photo but without the ''autographs''.My grandfather obviously gave this one to a friend.I would really like to know who!!One of his All Black caps that he gave to his friend Lou Brown eventually went to auction in Christchurch NZ and realised 14000 NZ dollars!!!

Bernard and Brenda, I hope that you see this and can respond in the next few weeks. I am coming to England in September to photograph many famous graves, and right at the top of the list would be those of Bronco Seeling and George Smith (another All Black who switched to league and died in Oldham). If you or anybody else could help me with where they are buried I would be immensely grateful.

Hi Tim,
Today is the first time I’ve seen your request for help .
I don’t visit this site so often. I just need you to know that I didn’t ignore your request and hope you got the info you needed.If you need anything else I can help you with,you have my email.
broncobernie@yahoo.com.au

Hi Tim,
Today is the first time I’ve seen your request for help .
I don’t visit this site so often. I just need you to know that I didn’t ignore your request and hope you got the info you needed.If you need anything else I can help you with,you have my email.
broncobernie@yahoo.com.au

Name Charles Seeling
Age in 1911 27
Estimated Birth Year abt 1884
Relation to Head Head
Gender Male
Birth Place Wanganui, New Zealand
Civil parish Wigan
County/Island Lancashire
Country England
Street Address 7 Throstlenest Avenue Wigan Lancashire
Marital Status Married
Occupation Professional Footballer Household Members (Name) Age Relationship
Charles Seeling 27 Head
Margret Seeling
26
Wife
Charles Seeling
3
Son