United were founded in 1937 as a successor to Colchester Town who were, in turn, founded in 1874.
Playing in a garrison town it is not surprising that trouble has occured occasionally at games. Around the turn of the century the players had to intervene to prevent the referee, Robert Cook, from being deposited in the canal by the crowd he had just antagonised.
Colchester United 1937
Article by Footymad
Updated Tuesday, 6th November 2001
Another incident of note occurred in 1903 when a match against the Irish Fusiliers ended with supporters of the opponents removing their belts and entering into a full scale fight.
The club moved to Layer Road, a former parade ground, in 1909.
The modern club won the Southern League Championship in 1939 and became the first non-league team to reach the F.A. Cup fifth round in 1948. The club joined the League following the expansion of Division Three (South) in 1950-51.
The clubs most celebrated game saw the giant killing of the famous Leeds United team in the 5th round F.A. Cup tie in 1971.
The clubs most celebrated game saw the giant killing of the famous Leeds United team in the 5th round F.A. Cup tie in 1971.
