Formation of Wasps Rugby Football Club in Middlesex

Background. The formation of Wasps occurred in 1867 due to discord among members of Hampstead Football Club. This internal conflict led to a split in the membership, resulting in the creation of two separate entities. One group continued as Harlequin F.C., while the other established Wasps Football Club. The new club adopted a name reflecting Victorian fashion trends, choosing an insect name that was considered stylish at the time.

Location and Naming. Wasps Football Club was formed at the Eton and Middlesex Tavern, a venue in North London that is now defunct. The choice of the name 'Wasps' was influenced by the Victorian period's fashion for using names of insects, birds, and other animals. This naming convention distinguished the new club from its predecessor, Hampstead Football Club, which later changed its name to Harlequin F.C.

Legacy and Context. The legacy row suggests a location at the Recreation Ground in Richmond, but the source passages indicate the formation occurred at the Eton and Middlesex Tavern in North London. Richmond is noted as a town in south-west London with parks and open spaces, including Old Deer Park, which features rugby pitches. However, the specific connection to the 1867 formation is not supported by the provided passages.