Charles Monro (rugby union) facts for kids
Charles John Monro (born April 5, 1851 – died April 9, 1933) is famous for bringing the game of rugby union to New Zealand. Sometimes, his name is also spelled Charles Munro, which is how his family's clan name is often written.
Early Life and Learning Rugby
Charles John Monro was born on April 5, 1851, in a place called Waimea West, near Nelson, New Zealand. He was the fourth son of Sir David Monro, who was an important politician. His father later became the second Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, which is like the leader of the main talking group in the New Zealand government.
Charles went to Nelson College from 1863 to 1865. He then traveled to England and attended Christ's College, Finchley near London, from 1867 to 1869. It was there that he first learned to play rugby, joining the school's second team.
Bringing Rugby to New Zealand
When Charles Monro returned to New Zealand, he was keen to share the game he loved. In 1870, he introduced rugby to the Nelson Football club. He brought the rules that were used in 1868 and even a new oval-shaped Gilbert rugby ball.
The very first rugby game in New Zealand was played on May 14, 1870. It was a match between the team from Nelson College, called "The Gown," and Monro's own club team, "The Town." They played at the Botanics ground in Nelson.
Just four months later, Charles Monro showed how much he wanted rugby to grow in New Zealand. He helped organize, choose players for, and coach a team from Wellington. He also played for the Nelson team and even acted as the referee for the first rugby game played in the North Island. This historic game took place in Petone on September 12, 1870.
Family Life
Charles Monro lived an interesting life and spent some time in England and other parts of Europe. In 1885, he married Helena Beatrice Macdonald in New Zealand. She was known as Lena.
In 1889, Monro bought land in Fitzherbert, which was across the Manawatu River from Palmerston North. He named his home Craiglockhart. Charles and Lena Monro had five children together. Charles came from a family of doctors, and all three of his sons also became medical professionals.
Charles John Monro passed away in Palmerston North in 1933. He was buried at Kelvin Grove Cemetery. His wife and their five children survived him.
See also
- History of rugby union in New Zealand
- New Zealand Rugby Museum
