Leyton Orient, the second-oldest football club in London, has opened a new museum at its Brisbane Road stadium. The museum, located in the stadium's former home dressing room, displays memorabilia, photographs, match programmes, historic shirts and unique artefacts from nine decades of the club's history. Much of the items on display were donated by fans.
Museum Highlights and Location
The museum is housed in the dressing room that was recently restored to its 1956 appearance, when the O's won the Third Division South. The restoration involved removing 1970s panelling from the walls. Fans can access the museum under the 'Only One Orient' sign in Brisbane Road, through a set of red wooden double doors.
Fan Contributions and Restoration
The club is asking fans to continue sharing their photos and memorabilia, which could be featured in the display. The changing room's restoration is part of an effort to celebrate the club's history, which dates back to 1881. The museum is now open to the public.
Club Officials' Statements
Neil Taylor, chief executive of the Leyton Orient Trust, said: 'We are thrilled to be working with Davis Watson – club historian – on bringing the East Stand home team changing room back to life and filled with Orient memorabilia – kindly donated by Orient fans.' He added: 'Given the age of the changing room and the hundreds of Orient players that used it – it is fitting that we celebrate the achievements of the 1956 winning team in the very room where they would have celebrated.'
Taylor also emphasized the importance of preserving the club's history for future generations, stating: 'As the club charity, it is important that the club's history is remembered and shared with new generations, so that they appreciate what previous fans, players, managers and owners have built and something that we can all be proud of.'
The museum opening comes amid a summer of football excitement in London, following Arsenal's league title win and the World Cup. The Leyton Orient Museum offers fans a new way to engage with the sport's local heritage.
