William Webb Ellis Collection

New Zealand rugby player Jonah Lomu visiting Rugby. Pictured at the Webb Ellis plaque at Rugby School. 24th November 1995

Plate 103 by William Ellis
Plate 103 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 105 by William Ellis
Plate 105 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 102 by William Ellis
Plate 102 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 108 by William Ellis
Plate 108 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 107 by William Ellis

Plate 106 by William Ellis
Plate 106 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 109 by William Ellis
Plate 109 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 104 by William Ellis
Plate 104 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 100 by William Ellis
Plate 100 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 99 by William Ellis
Plate 99 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (1756-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

Plate 98 by William Ellis
Plate 98 from a collection of watercolour sketches by William W. Ellis (?-1785) made on Captain James Cooks third voyage to explore the south (1776-1780)

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William Webb Ellis, a name synonymous with the birth of rugby. This legendary figure is celebrated not only for his role in shaping the sport we know today but also for inspiring countless athletes around the world. Recently, New Zealand rugby icon Jonah Lomu paid homage to Ellis by visiting Rugby, England. Lomu's visit took him to the Webb Ellis plaque, a testament to the man who changed history on that fateful day in 1823. As he stood before it, one could almost feel the spirit of innovation and determination that propelled Ellis forward. The journey continued as Lomu explored various plates created by William Ellis himself. Plate 103 showcased an intense match where players embraced their passion for this exhilarating game. Plate 105 captured a moment of triumph as teams battled fiercely on the field. Moving along, Plate 102 depicted unity and camaraderie among teammates while Plate 108 portrayed sheer athleticism and skill displayed during gameplay. The images on Plates 107 and 106 highlighted moments of pure joy and celebration shared amongst players after scoring unforgettable tries. As Lomu reached Plate 109, he was reminded once again of how far rugby has come since its humble beginnings. The evolution was evident in Plate 104 as players demonstrated strategic plays and tactical brilliance on display. Delving deeper into history through Plates 100, 99, and98, Lomu gained insight into how this beloved sport grew from its roots to become a global phenomenon cherished by millions worldwide. In paying tribute to William Webb Ellis' legacy, Jonah Lomu honored not just one man but an entire culture built upon teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. His visit served as a reminder that even today's stars owe their success to those who paved the way before them - like William Webb Ellis did all those years ago.