Venice After Dark: A Photo Journey Through the Ethereal Floating City

The Floating City is famous for its bright summer sun and crowded piazzas, but to truly feel Venice, you must meet her at night, in the crisp air of late autumn. These photos, taken on November 1st, 2018, with my Nikon D3300, capture that elusive, quiet magic—a city of stone and water, transformed by the theatrical glow of lamplight.

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Twilight on the Grand Canal

November in Venice offers a different experience than the peak tourist season, with fewer crowds and the chance to appreciate the city's historical architecture in a more intimate setting. While the temperatures were cool, the air was clear, creating perfect conditions for reflections on the water.

In the first two images, the Grand Canal is an inky mirror, doubling the golden light spilling from the grand palaces . The rows of gondolas, usually bustling with daytime activity, are now moored, their sleek, dark forms waiting patiently beneath their blue covers. The glow highlights the stately, arched windows of the surrounding buildings, hinting at centuries of life and history behind those Venetian facades.

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San Marco's Basin at Dusk

As twilight deepens, the lagoon reveals some of Venice's most iconic landmarks, beautifully framed by a dramatic, cloud-strewn sky.

The most striking view is the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, a breathtaking Baroque masterpiece . Built as a votive offering after the devastating plague of 1630, the church's massive central dome and volutes stand prominently where the Grand Canal meets the San Marco Basin. Its construction began in 1631/32 and was consecrated in 1687. This magnificent structure is still the focus of the annual Festa della Salute on November 21st, when a temporary bridge is built across the Grand Canal to commemorate the city’s deliverance from the plague.

Further along the waterfront, the view across the basin captures the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore rising from its own island, a classic Venetian vista that becomes even more serene under the blue wash of evening .

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Bridges and Back Alleys

Away from the Grand Canal, the magic continues in the intimate, smaller squares and alleyways. The stillness of November nights allows you to fully absorb the architectural details.

• Ponte della Paglia: This famous stone bridge, which has its current structure dating from 1847, offers an incredible view of the adjacent Doge's Palace . Its name is thought to come from the boats that would moor nearby to unload straw (paglia).

• Campo San Giacomo di Rialto: Here, the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto (known as San Giacometto) stands illuminated. Believed by tradition to be the oldest church in Venice (built in 421 AD), it is notable for the large, 15th-century clock on its façade and the original Gothic portico.

• The Narrow Streets: The warmth of interior light pours from shops and apartments onto the slick cobblestones of the Calli and Campi . In Calle della Madonna or Campo San Gallo, people gather, their silhouettes absorbing the golden glow, giving the ancient city a pulse of modern life. 

Venice in November is a city of quiet reflection and stunning contrast, where the dark skies make the man-made light feel all the more precious. If you ever visit the Serenissima, trade the summer sun for a late autumn night—you'll see a side of Venice few ever truly experience.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Seaside Secret: Decoding a Vintage Postcard from Blackgang Chine

The humble postcard—a fleeting communication, often dashed off in a moment of seaside delight—is a treasure trove of historical snapshots. Today, we're holding one such treasure: a vintage card featuring the dramatic cliffs of Blackgang Chine on the Isle of Wight, paired with a charming, personal message.

Let's dive in and see what secrets this century-old correspondence holds.

Part I: The Postmark & Dating the Card

To get a precise date, we can analyse the stamp and the faint postmark details:

1. The Stamp

The stamp is a King George V Halfpenny green definitive stamp. This particular design, featuring the King's profile, was in use for a long period, but the 'Halfpenny' value places it generally within the years where that rate was standard for postcards. The design shown, often referred to as the 'George V Head', was first issued around 1912.

2. The Postmark

The visible part of the postmark clearly shows "TUNBRIDGE WELLS" (or possibly "TUNBRIDGE W[ells]") and a date that includes "NOV" and a visible "2" in the year slot (though this is less certain). The stamp itself has a faint cancellation mark showing a date of "NOV 2 19[xx]".

Considering the style of the script, the postcard format, and the King George V stamp, a likely window for this card is the 1910s or 1920s. Given that the postcard is often a brief holiday note, the "NOV 2" date suggests it was mailed after a visit, perhaps a late autumn break or a trip related to the writer's work.

Part II: The Image – Blackgang Chine

Blackgang Chine is famous as the UK's oldest amusement park, established in 1843. However, the photograph here focuses on the natural drama of the chine (a steep coastal ravine).

The image shows a wild, rugged landscape with clear, dramatic erosion of the soft sandstone and clay cliffs. Note the stepped pathways and wooden railings snaking up the slope. This is typical of Blackgang Chine's early appeal, where visitors were drawn not by dinosaurs and theme rides, but by the sheer, imposing geology and the Victorian fascination with the sublime and sometimes dangerous coastline. The chine is notoriously prone to landslips, and this picture perfectly captures its imposing and ever-changing nature.

Part III: Decoding the Message

The message, addressed to "Dear Mum" (or perhaps "Dear Nunn", though "Mum" is more likely for the time), reveals a fascinating personal story:

• The Writer's Location: The writer is clearly away from home and is posting the card from Tunbridge Wells.

• A "Busman's Holiday"? The key phrase is, "I have been playing in the Band at a large Hospital and had a lovely time." This suggests the writer is a musician who may have travelled to Tunbridge Wells to perform for the patients at a large military or convalescent hospital. The use of "lovely time" indicates a positive experience despite the context of a hospital.

• The Missing Man: The writer mentions not having seen a friend or relative named "Harry" yet. The reason for this delay is intriguing: "He has been up to see me in a bit of a rush and was got in so he must wait till I have time to run up and see him again." This is a little unclear but likely means Harry was busy, perhaps with his own duties or work, and the writer was busy with the band, forcing a delay in their meeting.

• The Recipient: The card is addressed to:

  • Mrs Tanner

  • 62A London Rd

  • W Croydon, Surrey

The detail of "62A" is important, as it suggests the Tanners may have lived in a specific flat or a property divided for multiple occupancy, a detail that could allow a genealogist to precisely locate the family.

The Conclusion: A Glimpse of Sacrifice

This postcard, despite its brief nature, paints a vivid picture. It captures a moment of respite and personal connection during a time likely marked by collective sacrifice. If this card dates to the 1914–1918 (WWI) period, the "large Hospital" could very well have been a military hospital or convalescent home treating wounded servicemen, making the band's performance an act of patriotic morale boosting. The sender's cheerful tone about having a "lovely time" is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the era.

This little card, though traveling only from Kent to Surrey, carries the echoes of a dramatic Isle of Wight coastline and a touching moment of service.

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The Enigmatic Gate: Unlocking a 35mm Mystery

Every slide in an old collection holds a secret, a moment frozen in time. But what happens when the label is blank? What if all you have is the image itself? That's the captivating challenge presented by this latest 35mm find: a striking photograph of a crumbling stone gatehouse.

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The Image: A Study in Time and Texture

Look closely at the picture. What strikes you first?

The structure is clearly a ruin, yet it retains a powerful, imposing presence. We're looking at a massive stone gatehouse, likely medieval or earlier, with a large, beautiful pointed archway that serves as the main entrance. The rough-hewn stone blocks speak of centuries of weather and conflict. Above the arch, much of the upper wall is missing, leaving a jagged silhouette against the bright sky.

This is clearly not a pristine, modern restoration; it’s a monument that has been left to the slow, beautiful decay of time.

• The Architecture: The scale suggests a fortified entrance to a castle, a walled town, or a large monastic precinct. The use of rough, grey stone is typical of fortifications across the British Isles and Western Europe.

• The Human Element: The two figures—one standing inside the deep archway, the other perhaps just stepping out—add an essential sense of scale and life. They are tourists, modern visitors passing through a portal built for a completely different world. Their presence highlights the structure's sheer size and the journey of time it represents.

• The Setting: The ground is rough and uneven, covered in grass and debris. The foliage seems dense behind the arch, suggesting the ruin is set in a natural, perhaps rural, landscape.

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A Portal to the Past

While we may not know the exact location or year this photograph was taken, the image transports us instantly. This gatehouse was once the ultimate symbol of power and security.

Imagine the scenes this archway has witnessed:

• The clatter of knights in armour riding out to battle.

• The anxious crowds sheltering behind the stone walls during a siege.

• The solemn procession of monks or merchants passing in and out.

• The simple, everyday coming and going of a community whose entire life revolved around the safety this structure provided.

Now, all that remains is a grand, silent shell. It's a testament not to permanence, but to endurance. It stands not as a working defence, but as a silent storyteller, its missing stones the lost pages of a history book.

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Where in the World is This?

The classic pointed arch, the rugged stone, and the general form strongly suggest a medieval gatehouse in the United Kingdom or Ireland (think structures in Wales, England, or Scotland, where these types of ruins are common). It could be a place like Beaumaris Castle, an ancient town gate, or the entrance to a powerful abbey.

For me, the real joy of a mystery slide like this is the research—the digital detective work. If you recognize this imposing ruin, please let us know!

Until then, this forgotten slide remains a magnificent monument to mystery, inviting every viewer to step through its broken archway and imagine the stories it holds.

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A Summer Stroll Through Crow Wood Park, Sowerby Bridge

Stepping into Crow Wood Park in Sowerby Bridge, especially on a lovely day like the one captured in these June 2023 photos, feels like discovering a peaceful, green oasis. The mix of open, rolling lawns, mature woodlands, and charming historic features offers a welcome escape.

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The Rich History Beneath the Grass

What many visitors may not realise is the fascinating history woven into the very fabric of this beautiful public space. Crow Wood Park wasn't always a park—it was once the grand grounds of Crow Wood Mansion.

• A Wartime Legacy: The mansion itself played a significant role during World War I, serving as a hospital until its closure in 1920.

• A Public Vision: The forward-thinking Sowerby Bridge Council purchased the estate in 1919 with the vision of creating a public space, a true community hub. The mansion was subsequently demolished, and the park officially opened its gates in April 1923.

• A Place of Remembrance: A profound feature is the Memorial Gate, unveiled on November 10, 1929. This powerful monument was dedicated to those from the Sowerby Bridge area who perished in the Great War, and now honours the fallen of both World Wars.

• Centenary Status: In 2014, the park was fittingly renamed Crow Wood Centenary Park to mark the 100th anniversary of the start of WWI, reinforcing its historical significance and protecting it forever as a Centenary Field.

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A Park for Every Season (and every Nikon d3300!)

Our collection of photos, taken on a bright summer day, perfectly highlights the park's diverse appeal:

• Winding Paths & Open Views: The asphalt paths invite you for a gentle run or a leisurely stroll, leading you through sun-drenched clearings and offering lovely views over the local valley and the houses nestled below.

• Woodland Serenity: Parts of the park feel wonderfully enclosed, with dappled light filtering through the mature trees, creating cool, lush green tunnels and secluded walkways.

• Historic Charm: Keep an eye out for the remnants of its past! Ornate features like the stone pedestal or what appears to be part of an old fountain or wellhead add a touch of historic grandeur to the formal garden areas.

• Modern Amenities: While the original bandstand has been repurposed, the park remains a vital community space with facilities like tennis courts, now benefiting from recent refurbishment investment!), and open fields perfect for a picnic or simply letting the kids run free.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a place to reflect on local history, or a green space to stay active, Crow Wood Park truly is a jewel in Sowerby Bridge's crown. It's a living, breathing testament to community spirit and enduring local heritage.

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Whispers on the Path: The History of Norland's Donkey Bridge

Deep within the wooded valley that divides the villages of Norland and Copley in West Yorkshire lies a hidden gem of local heritage: the Donkey Bridge. Surrounded by mossy stone walls and the vibrant green of the Maple Dean Clough, this little crossing may seem unassuming, but it carries the heavy weight of local history, marking a vital link in the region's industrial past.

Visiting this secluded spot, capturing its serene, almost timeless beauty. The stone abutments, draped in thick moss, and the wooden path over the water tell a silent story of trade, toil, and community connection.

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What the Donkey Bridge Crosses

The bridge spans the Norland Stream, also known as Maple Dean Clough. This small watercourse is more than just a stream; it acts as the historic boundary between the townships of Norland and Copley. The water itself, tumbling over stones in the steep valley, is a typical feature of the Calderdale landscape.

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The Historical Importance: A Pack Horse Route

The name of the bridge is the most telling detail of its past. The "Donkey" in Donkey Bridge doesn't necessarily mean donkeys were the only animals used, but it firmly establishes the structure as a crucial part of a pack horse route.

In the era before turnpike roads and widespread cart usage, pack horses were the primary means of moving goods across the rugged, hilly terrain of the Pennines.

• Trade Connection: This path would have been a lifeline for local commerce, linking the high-lying village of Norland with the lower valley communities, particularly Copley.

• A Route of Necessity: The bridge allowed for the efficient movement of essential goods, raw materials, and finished products between areas. Norland's history is steeped in the woollen industry and quarrying; this path was likely crucial for transporting quarried stone down from the Norland side and perhaps bringing in supplies.

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From Trade to Toil: An Industrial Link

As the Industrial Revolution transformed Calderdale in the 18th and 19th centuries, the bridge’s role shifted from primarily trade to daily toil.

• Factory Workers' Commute: The path over Donkey Bridge became a daily route for many Norland residents who worked in the burgeoning mills and factories down in the valley. Historical records suggest that many locals, including those who worked at Akroyd’s mill in Copley, would have walked this path every day.

• The Dawn Commute: Imagine the journey: walking to and from work over this bridge, often in the dark hours before sunrise and after sunset, as the mill schedule demanded. The rough, setted (paved with small stones) nature of the path would have been difficult even in daylight.

Today, the original stone bridge structure is clearly visible, though the decking and railings are modern replacements ensuring safe passage. The long, moss-covered walls leading up to the crossing create a funnel, suggesting the path was deliberately narrowed and contained, a common feature of old tracks that were too steep for wheeled traffic.

Standing here, listening to the rushing of the Maple Dean Clough, it’s easy to feel connected to the footsteps—human and equine—that have passed over this little bridge for centuries. It remains a poignant reminder of the enduring infrastructure that powered the Industrial Age in West Yorkshire.

I took these pictures on the 20th March 2019 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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A Glimpse into the Past: Brotton Railway Station and Its Story

This beautifully colorized postcard of Brotton Railway Station truly brings a piece of history to life. It’s more than just a picture of a building; it’s a snapshot of a bygone era, bustling with local life and hinting at the stories held within its brick walls.

Let's take a closer look at what this image tells us about Brotton, a village with deep roots in the ironstone mining industry of North Yorkshire.

The Heart of Brotton: The Railway Station

Brotton Railway Station was a vital artery for the community, especially after the discovery of ironstone in the Cleveland Hills in the mid-19th century. The railway wasn't just for passengers; it was crucial for transporting the extracted ironstone to the smelters in Teesside, fuelling the industrial revolution.

In this image, we see the station's rather grand and substantial architecture, suggesting its importance. The distinctive chimneys and roofline give it a sturdy, almost institutional feel, typical of many railway buildings constructed during the Victorian and Edwardian periods.

Fashion, Faces, and a Fenced Future

The most captivating elements of this photograph are undoubtedly the people. We see a group of children and adults gathered near the station entrance, some looking towards the camera, others seemingly engaged in conversation or movement. Their attire offers valuable clues:

• Children: Dressed in simple, practical clothing, many in dresses and pinafores.

• Adults: The women's hats and long skirts, and the men's more formal wear (one figure on the left appears to be wearing a cap and coat, while another in the group seems to be in a uniform of some sort, perhaps a railway worker or a local constable), all point to an earlier time.

The presence of the wooden fence along the right side of the image, the unpaved ground, and the general air of a growing, yet still somewhat rural, settlement further inform our perspective. The "WHITBY" sign on the left near the fence is also a wonderful detail, highlighting connections to other local towns and likely signifying the train's destination or a local business.

Dating the Image: A Best Guess

Based on the architectural style of the station, the clothing worn by the people, and the overall feel of the scene, we can make an educated guess about the photograph's date.

Brotton Station opened in 1875. The clothing styles visible, particularly the women's and children's outfits, strongly suggest the late Victorian or early Edwardian period. The formality of dress, even for children, was common until well into the 20th century.

Considering these factors, a likely timeframe for this photograph would be between 1890 and 1910. It captures an era just before the dramatic changes brought about by the First World War and the subsequent shifts in fashion and daily life.

What a wonderful piece of local history brought to life with this colorization! It prompts us to imagine the sounds and smells of the station – the hiss of steam, the whistle of a departing train, and the chatter of villagers going about their day.

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Uncovering the Urban Wild: A Stroll Along a Stretch of Halifax's Hebble Trail

There’s a unique charm in finding pockets of forgotten beauty amidst the urban sprawl. On June 13th, 2015, armed with a Polaroid is2132 camera, I ventured onto a stretch of the Hebble Trail in Halifax, specifically the path between Water Lane and Sedburgh Road. What I discovered was a captivating blend of industrial history, rebellious artistry, and nature's resilient reclaim.

The trail itself felt like stepping into a liminal space, a narrow canyon carved between towering walls. On one side, gabion basket walls, overflowing with stones and topped with wire fencing, hinted at past engineering and perhaps flood defences or land stabilization efforts. The raw, exposed rock and mesh provided a stark, almost brutalist aesthetic. Yet, clinging to these walls, and in every available crevice, was an explosion of tenacious greenery – ferns, weeds, and wild grasses pushing through, softening the edges of the man-made structures.

Across the path, older, more ornate brickwork, possibly remnants of bygone industrial buildings, stood as a testament to Halifax's rich manufacturing past. Arched window openings, now mostly bricked in or obscured, whispered stories of bustling factories and forgotten laborers. These walls, however, weren't silent. They were alive with a riot of colour and expression – vibrant graffiti tags, intricate murals, and bold statements painted by countless anonymous artists. One image in particular, a striking green, skull-like creature with glowing red eyes, captured the raw energy and subversive spirit of this urban art gallery.

Walking deeper into this concrete canyon, the path twisted and turned, at times narrowing, at others opening slightly to reveal glimpses of the sky. The ground underfoot shifted from rough asphalt, dappled with moss and fallen leaves, to uneven cobblestones, suggesting an older pathway that once served a different purpose. Litter, unfortunately, was also a constant companion – discarded papers, plastic, and general debris adding to the raw, untamed feel of the place. It's a reminder that even in these hidden gems, the challenges of urban neglect are present.

One of the most intriguing aspects was the presence of the Hebble Brook itself. Peeking through gaps in the foliage and under archways, the dark, fast-flowing water added another layer to the landscape. Its ceaseless movement contrasted with the static permanence of the walls, a natural force carving its way through the man-made environment. The way the brook disappeared into dark culverts and reappeared further along added a sense of mystery, making me wonder what other hidden passages and secrets lay beyond.

The overall impression was one of stark beauty and resilient life. It’s a place where nature battles concrete, where history meets modernity, and where anonymous artists leave their mark. The light shifted throughout my walk – some sections were bathed in bright, diffused light, while others, particularly where the path dipped under structures or narrowed, were shrouded in a captivating gloom. The black and white image, in particular, stripped away the colour to highlight the textures, the stark contrasts, and the interplay of light and shadow, emphasizing the raw, almost melancholic beauty of the trail.

The Hebble Trail, at least this section of it, isn't manicured or picturesque in the traditional sense. It's grittier, more authentic, and in its own way, incredibly beautiful. It's a testament to how urban spaces can evolve, becoming canvases for expression, havens for wildlife, and intriguing pathways for those willing to look beyond the obvious. My Polaroid captured not just images, but the very essence of this urban wild – a truly memorable and inspiring stroll.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.