In Old Photographs – serie

The images in Belfast in Old Photographs, many of them previously unpublished, habe been drawn from the collections of the Ulster Museum, which holds one of the largest and most important photographic archives in Ireland. Focusing on several central themes, they illustrate with remarkable clarity the changing face and fortunes of this great city during the century of so after the Great Irish Famine (1845-50).These were decades of political and social upheaval, commercial growth and cultural innovation, national occasion and the local events, all of which were documented as they happened through the medium of photography. But the ordinary was also captured as the camera recorded the everyday experiences of those who called Belfast their home. It is these images, over 200 of which are recorded here, which convey to us the reality of city life in all its aspects and rich variety. This book will be invaluable to the many local historians in Northern Ireland, and will provide a feast of nostalgia got all those who know and love this beguiling city.

This is a superb collection of over 200 photographs selected and informatively captioned by David Vodden. Walsall in Living Memory contains pictures from the author's own and other private sources, many of which have never been published before. Illustrated here are servicemen and civilians, the Anglo-American Friendship Week in February 1945, local industries, Scouting activities, events and familiar landmarks like the power station, the Savoy Cinema and the market. As well as pre-war and wartime images, modern changes are also documented including the rebuilding of Old Square and Digbeth, the development of the Civic Centre, the New Art Gallery, the bus station, Woolworths and the pedestrianisation of Park Street, High Street and Darwall Street. Even the most recent redevelopment of High Street and George Street features here.This is David Vodden's third book on Walsall and it is sure to bring back happy memories to those who know the town, as well as providing a valuable insght into its part for visitors and new residents alike.