A new Central League, based in Stirlingshire, was competed for in 1903–04 (members: Dunblane, King's Park and Strathallan) and 1904–05 (members: Alloa Athletic, Camelon, Dunblane, King's Park and Stenhousemuir).
The fixtures were not completed in either season but the leaders were both awarded the championship.
The Central League was reformed in 1909 with twelve members – Alloa Athletic, Arbroath, Bathgate, Bo'ness, Broxburn Athletic, Dunfermline Athletic, East Fife, King's Park, Kirkcaldy United, Lochgelly United and St Johnstone.
Since this competition was independent, member clubs could attract players by paying higher wages than those allowed under the maximum wage rules that applied to Scottish League clubs.
The Calder Shield was awarded to the league champions and after its dissolution, the trophy was competed for by the Linlithgowshire clubs in a knock-out competition.