Originally called Burslem Port Vale, they were founder members of the Football League Division Two, in 1892. After dropping out of the League, due to financial problems in 1907, they were re-elected to the Football League in 1919, after the Football Association forcibly disbanded Leeds City for making illegal payments to players. Vale themselves were expelled from the League in 1968 (for financial irregularities) and forced to seek re-election, which they achieved.

Although it is widely believed that Port Vale is one of the few teams not to be named after a geographical location, the name Port Vale exists on maps predating the formation of the club in 1876, and is a reference to a valley of ports on the Trent and Mersey canal, associated with the city's pottery industry.

Among the club's fanbase is singer ( and football shirt collector) Robbie Williams, who was raised in Stoke-on-Trent. He is now a major shareholder having, in February 2006, bought £240,000 worth of shares in the club

For the computer game FIFA 2000 he provided an original theme song with It's Only Us on the condition that Port Vale were included in the game, which they were, as a special feature team.

Just to remind you, the home shirts will go on sale on Friday 20th July and the away shirts follow a week later on Friday 27 July. The club shop will remain open until 7.00pm on both nights to help those of you who are unable to get here in normal working hours.