The history of Stoke City F.C., an English association football club based in Stoke-on-Trent, began when Stoke Ramblers were formed in 1863.
In 1878, the club moved to the Victoria Ground, their home for the
next 119 years, and merged with Stoke Victoria Cricket Club to become
Stoke Soccer Club. The club joined the Football League upon its formation
in 1888,