Blue plaque homage to Walter Tull

Yesterday, Walter Tull was honoured with a Nubian Jak Blue plaque in Tottenham, where he lived and made his name as a football star. Tull was the first black outfielder to play in the English premier league, making his football debut just around the corner from where the plaque was unveiled in 1909. Years later he would join the army to fight in WWI, becoming the first black British army officer. Unfortunately he ultimately lost his life on the battlefield in 1918.

A wide audience of young students, professionals, community members, and veterans turned up on this blustery day for the unveiling of the plaque. The crowd enjoyed music and were then inspired by the words of many fine speakers.

The event was hosted by former BBC East Enders star Carmel Jackson. Garth Crooks, former forward for Tottenham, spoke first. He told the crowd about discovering Walter Tull’s picture in the depths of the Spur clubhouse and trying to first find out more about this mysterious black lad and then make sure his story was told to others.

Simon Woolley spoke next, reminding the crowd how special and important Tull’s story is, and how it can be an inspiration for the future. Next the crowd heard a little bit about Tull’s life from a historian. A brief few words were spoken by a member of Tull’s family, Graham Tutthill.

Finally, a Black veteran from WWII spoke, and then a younger pair of Black veterans concluded the program by telling the crowd how important it was to remember the stories of exceptional and courageous figures like Tull.

A passerby who stopped and listened to the proceedings ask to say a few words. The man, who was ex-military himself, told the crowd how great he thought it was to recognize and remember past military heroes, and wished them all the best. Finally, Garth Crooks did the honours and unveiled the plaque itself.

The event was a lovely example of multiple generations and community voices coming together to pay homage to the past and inspiring the future.

Hopefully, the plaque will help more people learn about Tull and his incredible feats.

If you would like to visit the plaque, the address is 77 Northumberland Park, Tottenham, London N17 0PG.

Ruth Hirsch