Arthur Williamson Death | Obituary – Arthur Williamson passed away on June 26th at the age of 89,A stalwart full back signed from
Arthur Williamson was never one to shout from the rooftops about his sporting talents. But his story from humble beginnings in the countryside of Perthshire to powering down the flank against the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City is a special one
Talented full-back Arthur was born on July 26, 1930 and football soon became one of his favorite past-times. His talent was evident from a young age.
He began his footballing journey with Jeanfield Swifts in Perth and then, in 1950, he made the move to Clyde FC. But it was south of the border where his career really kicked-off.
In fact, Arthur continues to be regarded as a legend at Southend United where, astonishingly, he made 229 consecutive appearances having first signed in May, 1955.
The strong tackler – noted as being quick in recovery – laced his boots for a first-team debut in the September of that year. Leyton Orient provided the opposition.
His consistency and professionalism cemented a regular slot in the Shrimpers’ rearguard and his name was soon ringing out around the terraces of Roots Hall.
Arthur’s 1956/57 season included starring in a 2-1 win over Liverpool while, in the same campaign, he opened his account with a rare goal against Watford at Vicarage Road.
By this point he had the full-back position nailed down and his 200th appearance arrived during the 1959/60 campaign in a tussle with Southampton.
Leaving the club at the end of the 1961/62 season, 287 appearances in total – 18 in the FA Cup – this truly was a remarkable feat in football.
“If you quizzed him on Southend he would speak about it,” said Arthur’s son-in-law Stuart Kidd.
“I even remember him talking about playing Liverpool in the cup. But it wasn’t something he dwelt on.
“There is a chap who has written a book: the 100 greatest Southend players. On the other page from him is Ronnie Whelan and included are the likes of Stan Collymore.
“Written in 2001, the book reckoned his consecutive appearance record would never be beaten. I’d be amazed if anyone beats it.”
It was sure to be an emotional departure from Southend but Arthur returned home to Perthshire and was a butcher locally, including in Comrie. Described as an all-round sportsman, golf was another passion and he became a greenkeeper at Craigie Hill Golf Club in 1974. He was later promoted to head greenkeeper.
Arthur was also pretty handy with a club in his hand and an extension to his trophy cabinet was required to house a growing list of accolades.
He won the Hill Thomas Trophy for three consecutive years in 1972, 1973 and 1974 and the Foursomes Trophy in 1979 and 1980 with his long-standing partner Tommy Wallace.
Arthur was a Club Championship match play champion on five occasions – 1973, 1977, 1978, 1980 and 1983. He won the stroke-play title in 1974, 1976 and 1980.
It is with greatness sadness we report on the passing of Arthur Williamson on June 26th at the age of 89. A stalwart full back signed from @ClydeFC in May 1955. He made a club record 230 consecutive appearances for #Southend between Jan 1956 and Sept 1960. https://t.co/ZC0LDFTq5H
— SUFC_History (@SUFC_History) July 10, 2020
