Stoke City originated as Stoke Ramblers, formed in 1868. The club moved to the Victoria Ground in 1883. Its name is taken from a nearby public house. Stoke City remained at the 'Vic' until 1997 when it moved a short distance to a new all-seat ground, built on the site of a former colliery. Just five years before this Aerofilms photograph was taken, the pitch was surrounded by a running track, which was removed to improve the ground, including the construction of the Boothen End terrace, seen at the far end of the pitch.
Historic England Archive EPW047682.