Founded in 1875 by local school-leavers.
Used several pitches, including Alexander
Meadows, the East Lancashire Cricket Club
ground, and became known nationally for their
FA Cup exploits, eclipsing the record of
Blackburn Olympic, the first club to take the
trophy away from London. Three consecutive
wins in the 1880s, when in the finals Queen's
Park (twice) and West Bromwich Albion were
beaten, brought recognition by way of a special
shield awarded by the FA to commemorate the
achievement. Founder member of the Football
League in 1888, the club settled at Ewood
Park in 1890, purchasing the ground outright in
1893-94. Premier League founder member
1992 and champions in 1994-95.
