A question of Identity

A proposal appeared in The Boston Target that an association might be formed for former Boston United players and that it be called The Old Bostonians Society. Tony Austin (BGS 1956-1961), OBA President had this response printed.

Following the article on page 50 of the issue on July 2, 2003, I enclose a copy of a letter I have sent to Mr Cook. I hope that we can all come to an amicable agreement on this matter.

The Old Bostonian Association lays claim to the description Old Bostonians as an established form of identity for the last 100 years (our Centenary celebrations were in 2000), and I don’t think either ourselves, or the new society will benefit from two bodies using the same name.

I trust our identity will be clarified in your publication.

The following is the letter Mr Austin has sent to Chris Cook, the man behind the idea of forming an association of former Boston United players:

“The officers of this association are very concerned to read in the Target of a proposal to form an organisation called The Old Bostonians Society.”

“Our association has been in existence for more than 100 years and membership is open to all former students and staff members of Boston Grammar School. We are well known in the town as The Old Bostonians and it is felt that the foundation of another body with substantially the same name can only lead to confusion when advertising functions and meetings, etc.”

“We trust that you will give this matter due consideration and grant us continuance of unfettered use of a title that we have established over the last century.”

Tony Austin
OBA President (BGS 1956-1961)