Darlington 1883

Darlington 1883, officially known as Darlington Football Club, is a professional football club based in Darlington, England. The club was established in 1883, hence the name, and has a rich history that spans over a century.

The club was initially formed as Darlington St Augustine's FC before changing its name to Darlington FC in 1888. Over the years, the club has experienced a rollercoaster of successes and challenges, which have shaped its legacy in English football.

Darlington 1883 has spent the majority of its history in the lower leagues of English football. However, the club has had its moments of glory. In 1925, the club was elected to the Football League, marking a significant milestone in its history. The club has also had success in the FA Cup, reaching the last 16 in 1910 and 1958.

In 2012, the club faced financial difficulties and was demoted to the Northern League Division One, the ninth tier of English football. Despite these challenges, the club reformed as Darlington 1883 and managed to secure three promotions in four seasons to reach the National League North.

The club's home ground is Blackwell Meadows, a stadium they share with Darlington Rugby Club. The move to Blackwell Meadows in 2016 marked a return to Darlington for the club after four years in exile at Bishop Auckland's Heritage Park.

Darlington 1883 has a passionate fan base, known as the "Darlo Fans". The fans have played a crucial role in the club's survival and success, particularly during the financial crisis in 2012 when they helped raise funds to keep the club afloat.

The club's traditional colours are black and white, and their mascot is a creature known as "Darlo Dog". The club's crest features a locomotive, a nod to the town's railway heritage.

Despite the ups and downs, Darlington 1883 remains a beloved institution in English football. The club's resilience and determination, coupled with the unwavering support of its fans, have ensured its survival and continued relevance in the football landscape.

In 2017, the club dropped the "1883" from its name and returned to its original name, Darlington FC, as part of its efforts to embrace its history and tradition. Today, the club continues to compete in the National League North, striving for success on the pitch and aiming to secure a return to the Football League.

Darlington FC's journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of football, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, a club can rise again and continue to inspire its fans and community. The club's story is far from over, and it continues to write new chapters in its rich history.