Eton Manor takes its name from Eton College, which from the 1880s had run a "mission" to raise living standards in the East End of London. In 1909 four Old Etonian philanthropists founded Eton Manor Boys Club to provide sporting facilities in the Hackney area, purchasing the former Manor Farm in 1913. In 1920 an old rubbish tip site was converted into the club's new sports ground, known as The Wilderness. Facilities included nine football pitches, two rugby pitches, cricket pitches, six tennis courts, a bowling green, a squash court and a running track. Eton Manor Boys Club closed in 1967. Three sports clubs originating from the originating from Eton "mission" are still in existence: Eton Manor Rugby Club, Eton Manor FC and Eton Manor Athletic Club.
Eton Manor Football Club was formed in 1911 by rich and influential families of the likes of Barings, Villiers and Lord Chelsea. Various clubhouses were used in the early years and eventually "The Wilderness" was used. This started a period of great success in the thirties. this success continued into the following decades, with many famous players coming from the club, including Alf Ramsey and Len Wills. The club became founder members of the Aetolian League in 1959 and followed other clubs into the Greater London League in 1964, winning the championship at the first attempt. The club played at several different venues during this period. Following a spell in the Metropolitan-London League, the club moved to the Essex Senior League in 1975. This Pieman visited Roding Lane on a Good Friday morning, The journey was made via London Underground Central Line to Buckhurst Hill station. From there it was only a short walk to the ground. Visitors Woodford Town won this derby match by the odd goal in three.
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