Walter Tull’s legacy honoured by opening of new housing development in Tottenham

The Club was delighted to take part in the opening and official naming of Walter Tull House today – a new Haringey Council housing development in Tottenham named after one of the most important figures in our history.

Walter Tull House consists of 131 Council homes and a brand-new state-of-the-art health centre at the heart of the Tottenham Hale district centre, forming part of the area’s continued regeneration.
 
The opening of the development honours the legacy of the first black outfield player to appear in the English Football League, representing the Club between 1909-11, before becoming the first black Infantry Officer in British Army History.

Renowned for his courage and bravery, Walter died aged 29 at the second Battle of the Somme. He was posthumously awarded the British War and Victory Medal and was also recommended for the Military Cross, but has never received it.

Walter blazed a trail for the many thousands of black footballers who have followed in his footsteps – not least our legendary former captain, Ledley King, who was in attendance at today’s event alongside our Executive Director, Donna-Maria Cullen.

Walter was represented at the event by his Grand Niece, Nairobi Thompson, who was presented with a certificate, signed by our Chairman, Daniel Levy, displaying Walter’s unique Tottenham Hotspur Legacy Number - #170.

The Club works to ensure Walter’s legacy lives on amongst future generations, with the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation delivering educational workshops to local school students.

Speaking at the event, Donna-Maria Cullen said: “The Club’s involvement in today’s event is extremely important for two reasons. We are passionate about Tottenham and this area’s continued regeneration - Walter Tull House is an example of the new, high-quality homes coming to the area and benefitting local residents.

“This particular development takes on extra significance for us with its name inspired by one of the most important and influential figures in our Club’s history. We are extremely proud that Walter made history at Tottenham Hotspur, becoming the English Football League’s first black outfield player.

“His legacy has lived on beyond his achievements on the football pitch and the battlefield – blazing a trail for future generations of black footballers and Army Officers that have followed in his footsteps to the present day. The opening of Walter Tull House further cements his legacy within our local community.”

Cllr Sarah Williams, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said: “We are proud that Walter Tull whose life continues to be an inspiration will be remembered and honoured through this important project.

“The delivery of 131 council homes is yet another substantial achievement and gives individuals and local families the opportunity to live in secure, safe, warm high-quality homes.  It is a wonderful legacy to everything Walter Tull achieved throughout his incredible life.

“It was humbling to meet Walter Tull’s family, and we hope that the naming of this development will stand as a lasting symbol to the tremendous courage he showed in overcoming prejudice to become a pioneer both as a footballer and in the armed forces.”

Read the full story of Walter Tull on the Club’s website.