In August, the club paid a deposit in the hope that the ground might be ready by Christmas, but legal difficulties prevented a grand opening, and the project was delayed.
For Palace, a coup: renowned stadium architect Archibald Leitch had been engaged to design a ground with space for 4,600 seats and 6,200 standing in the main section, with 50,000 more across the terraces, passing through 44 separate turnstiles.
Leitch’s résumé was unrivalled, having played a part in the construction of Old Trafford, Anfield, Highbury, Celtic Park, Hampden Park and Villa Park, among many more.
Construction was by Humphreys Ltd. at a cost of £30,000. The money would be raised by the directors together with 5% bonds purchased by supporters.