Jack Baynton
John Baynton was an English footballer who played in the Football League for Wolverhampton Wanderers. Note: There is evidence that Jack Baynton was born in 1860, not 1859. According to the FreeBMD website there was no J Baynton born in 1859 in Rushock but there was in the 2nd quarter of 1860. Also, all sources agree Baynton died 17 May 1939. FreeBMD show a John Baynton died aged 79 which leads to a birth in 1860.
Early career
Baynton was a pupil–teacher at St Luke's School in Blakenhall, whose football team was to become to Wolverhampton Wanderers. Baynton lined up initially for Blakenhall St. Luke's, as a centre–half, appearing in his first match on 15 March 1877. He became an officially registered footballer at the outset of the club in 1877 and appeared for them in various roles, including right-back and centre-forward. Not the tallest of defenders at just 5 ft 9ins, he then surprisingly changed positions to become a goalkeeper, and this became his favoured position. In the early days Baynton also acted as club secretary and treasurer.He appeared in Wolves' first-ever FA Cup tie and first-ever league match, as well as skippering them to their first-ever silverware, the 1884 Wrekin Cup. A wholehearted outfield player and team captain, who never gave less than 100 per cent, Baynton was also a very capable goalkeeper. Indeed, as a 'keeper, he once scored a goal from almost 100 yards, fly–kicking the ball downfield and between the posts when playing in a game at Dudley Road.