Glasgow archaeology dig hailed as 'one of world's most important'

Archaeologists are uncovering the hidden past of the modern game of football at the South Side site of the first Hampden Park. 

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Andrew Watson, the first black man to play for Scotland led the team at First Hampden

Digging began yesterday on the site, where the passing game of football that defines the current type of footie played around the world was invented. 

It has been hailed as one of the world's most significant archaeological investigations by Dr Paul Murtagh of Archaeology Scotland, who is on the site today.

He added: "This is the site where the passing and running game was first played and where modern football was born.

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"This site is the place where the idea of a purpose-built football ground originated, with a pavilion in the corner, a grand stand built to host spectators and the first use of turnstiles for entry.

"It is the place where all football stadiums, and indeed sports stadiums around the world, are able to trace their history back to. This is not only one of the most important archaeological sites in Glasgow or Scotland, but it is one of the most important sites in the world, especially for those interested in the social history of the modern world, as well as the history of the beautiful game.

"A game that has gone on to dominate the world and shape billions of lives”.

The first Hampden Park was opened in 1873 and was home to Queens Park FC and the Scotland National football team until 1884, when it was closed due to the building of the Cathcart Circle Railway line.

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The current home of the Hampden Bowling Club, the heritage group unveiled a mural paying tribute to Scotland’s first black player and the legendary captain who led them to victory against England in 1881. It remains one of their biggest ever defeats.

The mural was vandalised before lockdown last year but was restored to its full glory after a successful crowdfunder.

Archaeology Scotland is opening up the project to the public as part of its New Audience project, which aims to include people not normally involved with history and heritage projects, with a specific focus on giving access to immigrants and refugees.