About Derry Celtic FC

Derry Celtic Football Club was an early football club based in Derry, Ireland. It was founded in 1890 under the name St Columb’s Hall, later changing its name to Derry Celtic in 1893. The club played its home matches at venues including Celtic Park and later the Brandywell, and it became the main football team representing the city in the late 19th and early 20th century. It was one of the early clubs involved in organised Irish football and competed in both league and cup competitions.

During its time in the Irish League, Derry Celtic had mixed results but also achieved some notable moments. The club reached the Irish Cup final in 1898, although it lost the match. In the following years, it struggled to compete consistently against stronger Belfast-based teams, but it did manage occasional mid-table finishes and developed local talent. Despite limited success, it remained an important representative club for the city for many years.

By 1913, the club’s position had weakened significantly, and it was voted out of the Irish League. After leaving senior football, it effectively ceased operations, later disappearing completely. Derry Celtic is often remembered as the predecessor to later football development in the city, and its legacy is linked to the rise of Derry City FC, which became the main club in Derry after its formation in 1928.