I really doubt that. All the new fans who supported the merged team would have probably supported any league team in Inverness. So I think the crowds would be similar to what they are now.
I agree Joe.....FACT....in the 50s and 60s, Caley were regularily playing to crowds as big...if not bigger than what they average now, when they were in the Highland League. Dont belive me....go get yourself a copy of Rod Clynes book, In A Different League....its all in there.
I see no evidence to suggest that Caley on their own would have been less of a draw than ICT....if anything...i think they could have had a bigger, more loyal fanbase!
SMEE is right. According to Alex Main's "Caley All the Way, Caledonian had some quite large crowds during the 1950's and 60's:
Caledonian v Clach - 1949/50 NOS Qualifying Cup- Attendance 6,000 ( T Street)
Caledonian v Elgin - 1950/51 NOS Qualifying Cup - Attendance 4,000 ( T Street)
Caledonian v County -1965/66- NOS Qualifying Cup - Attendance 4,000 ( T Street)
Not sure what this proves other than Caledonian were able to get 1st division attendances.