A Glimpse into London's Past: Unpacking a Postcard of Hyde Park Corner

There's something uniquely captivating about old postcards. More than just a simple message carrier, they offer a tangible link to the past, a snapshot of a moment in time, and often, a surprising amount of historical detail if you know where to look. Today, I want to share a recent discovery from my own collection: a postcard depicting Hyde Park Corner and Constitution Arch, with some fascinating insights printed on its reverse.

The front of the postcard features a painting titled "Hyde Park Corner & Constitution Arch, c. 1829–34, by James Holland." Even at first glance, the scene is bustling with activity. We see a wide, unpaved thoroughfare, suggesting a time before modern road surfacing. People mill about, and there's a sense of movement and daily life unfolding. The architecture is grand and imposing, particularly the prominent archway, which we learn is Constitution Arch. To the right, another substantial building stands, identified on the back as St. George's Hospital.

What makes this postcard particularly compelling are the details provided on the reverse. It tells us that the painting captures the view "facing the entrance screen to Hyde Park, before it was moved to the top of Constitution Hill in 1883." This immediately sparks curiosity. The idea that such a substantial structure as Constitution Arch was moved is quite remarkable! A quick bit of research reveals that the arch, originally designed by Decimus Burton, was indeed relocated to accommodate road widening schemes. It's a testament to the engineering feats of the time and the ever-evolving nature of urban landscapes.

The postcard also highlights the "rough nature of the road surface," which is indeed very evident in the painting. This detail grounds the image in its historical context, reminding us of a time before asphalt and smooth pavements were commonplace. Imagine the dust, the mud, the rumble of horse-drawn carriages – it paints a vivid picture of London in the early 19th century.

Furthermore, the inscription mentions St. George's Hospital, "built in 1828–9," as being to the right. This gives us a precise timeframe for the painting and reinforces its historical accuracy. It's a reminder that these landmarks were not just static structures but active parts of the city's fabric, serving the community.

The postcard itself is a piece of history, too. It bears the mark of the London Museum and a copyright date of 1971, printed in England by Staples Printers Ltd., Kettering, Northants. This tells us that even in the early 1970s, this historical image was being disseminated, likely to educate and inform visitors about London's heritage.

This postcard is more than just a pretty picture; it's a miniature time capsule. It invites us to delve into the history of London, to learn about its architectural transformations, and to appreciate the everyday realities of life almost two centuries ago. It serves as a fantastic starting point for exploring the fascinating story of Hyde Park Corner, Constitution Arch, and the changing face of one of the world's great cities.

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Warland Reservoir: Unveiling History and Hidden Depths

Nestled amidst the dramatic Pennine landscape, Warland Reservoir offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, engineering marvels, and intriguing history. A recent visit provided a fascinating glimpse into this impressive body of water, revealing its past and the secrets it holds.

Our journey to Warland Reservoir began at an intriguing old entrance, marked by two weathered stone pillars bearing the inscription "R.C. W.W 1925." This carving points to the reservoir's deep historical roots, likely indicating the Rochdale Corporation Water Works, who extended the reservoir in 1927. While this date marks an expansion, the reservoir itself has a much older lineage; it was originally constructed around 1857 by the Rochdale Canal Company to ensure a consistent water supply for the canal, a vital artery of commerce in the region.

As we ventured further, the sheer scale of Warland Reservoir became apparent. On a cloudy day, the vast expanse of water stretched out before us, flanked by the sturdy dam wall and the rugged, moorland terrain. The water levels were noticeably low, exposing significant portions of the reservoir bed, which added a unique and somewhat stark beauty to the scene.

A prominent feature of the reservoir is its imposing intake tower, a testament to the engineering prowess involved in its creation. This castellated structure stands sentinel in the water, connected to the bank by a robust bridge, efficiently managing the water supply.

One of the most intriguing aspects of our visit was the sight of the "boat remains" exposed on the bed of Warland Reservoir. These skeletal remnants, looking like decaying wooden frames and structures, offer a poignant reminder of past activities on the water. Local accounts suggest that these boats, reportedly three in total, were deliberately submerged during World War II. The theory is that they were joined together with cables to prevent enemy seaplanes from landing on the reservoir and using it as a strategic staging point. While I only saw the remains of one boat during my visit, the idea of these submerged vessels playing a role in wartime defence adds a fascinating layer to Warland Reservoir's history.

Further exploration of the exposed reservoir bed revealed a surprising "waterfall" cascading down a rocky outcrop, an unusual sight in what would normally be submerged land. The vast, sandy, and muddy expanse, aptly named "The Beach" in one of the image descriptions, showed signs of erosion and the forces of nature at play.

Warland Reservoir is not just a functional body of water; it's a place with a story to tell. The visible "R.C. W.W 1925" sign, the majestic intake tower, and especially the mysterious sunken boat remains all contribute to a rich tapestry of history and intrigue. Our visit offered a unique perspective on this remarkable landscape, highlighting not only its natural beauty but also the human footprint left upon it over the decades. It's a place that invites contemplation, sparking questions about its past and the lives it has touched.

I took these pictures with Nikon d3300 on 27th May 2025, clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The next 3 pictures were taken with my Canon EOS R100, again clicking on them should open a link to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Mearclough Bridge: A Winter's Tale

 On the Outskirts of the town of Sowerby Bridge, lies Mearclough Bridge standing as a testament to the area's rich history. This masonry arch bridge, with its elegant design, has witnessed centuries of change.

While the exact date of the original bridge's construction is uncertain, historical records mention a crossing here as early as 1314, the current stone bridge being constructed between 1774 and the early 19th Century, suggesting the bridge has been a vital crossing point for centuries.

In the 1970s, to meet the demands of growing traffic, particularly from heavy goods vehicles accessing the nearby recycling depot and other industrial units, the bridge underwent significant strengthening. This was achieved by 'saddling' it with reinforced concrete, a vital upgrade that allowed it to continue serving the community's evolving transportation needs. However, in the 2010s, with the construction of the new Copley Valley Bridge providing enhanced access to the valley via Holmes Road, Mearclough Bridge's role shifted, and its access was subsequently restricted to small vehicles only.

Mearclough Bridge offers a picturesque view, especially in winter. The snow-covered landscape transforms the bridge and its surroundings into a serene and captivating scene. The River Calder flows gently beneath, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

I chose to present these images in black and white to emphasize the stark beauty of the winter snowfall. The monochromatic palette accentuates the textures of the snow-laden bridge and the surrounding landscape, creating a timeless and dramatic effect

I took these pictures on the 29th December 2017 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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From Railway Station to Resting Place: The Hunt for a Rugby Legend's Grave!

You know those moments when you're just… waiting? Like, really waiting? That was me, recently, at the Sowerby Bridge Railway Station. My usual tactic of staring blankly into the middle distance wasn't cutting it, so I turned my attention to the notice boards adorning the platform. And boy, am I glad I did!

Amidst the usual train timetables and local events, a short biography caught my eye – that of a Halifax Rugby League Footballer named Joe Riley (Gledhill). As I delved into the words, a little nugget of information jumped out at me: he was buried right here in Sowerby Bridge at the nearby Cemetery.

Now, I don't know about you, but there's something about a local hero and a nearby resting place that just sparks my inner detective. The mission was set: find Joe's grave!

Fast forward a few weeks to today, May 18th, 2025. Serendipity struck! I found myself near Sowerby Bridge Cemetery, and the opportunity to embark on my grave-hunting quest presented itself. Armed with my newfound knowledge, I ventured forth.

The Gledhill family, it turns out, has two plots side-by-side. My research, a quick dive into the digital archives (because who doesn't love a bit of pre-hunt internet sleuthing?), led me to believe that Joe's remains were interred with his mother and father in plot b312, to the right of his brothers' plot.

Here’s the thing, though: the headstone itself bears no mention of Joe. So, I'm crossing my fingers and toes that my information is spot on. But even if it’s not emblazoned on stone, the journey to find him was a brilliant little adventure, and it sparked a deeper dive into the life of this remarkable sportsman.

So, who was Joe Riley Gledhill? Let me tell you, this wasn't just any rugby player.

Joe Riley, Taken from the Halifax Panthers RLFC website, all rights and credits to the owner of the image. Click the image to be taken to the clubs Hall of Fame site.

Joe Riley Gledhill: A True Titan of the Turf (and Beyond!)

Born on June 16, 1882, right here in Sowerby Bridge, Joe was a force to be reckoned with. He played professional rugby league through the 1890s, 1900s, and 1910s, and even dipped his toes into coaching rugby union in the 1910s and 20s.

Imagine this: Joe represented Great Britain, England, and Yorkshire! He tore up the field for Sowerby Bridge and Halifax, a versatile player who could dominate as a centre, stand-off, or scrum-half. After his playing days, he even coached the newly established Halifax RUFC, alongside fellow Halifax Hall of Famer, Archie Rigg. Talk about a dynamic duo!

When he wasn't busy being a rugby legend, Joe worked for Smith, Bulmer & Co., a textile business in Holmfield. He passed away on February 28, 1950, at the age of 67, and his funeral fittingly took place in Sowerby Bridge Cemetery – bringing this story full circle.

A Career Bursting with Glory:

• International Caps: Joe earned caps for England against Wales in 1910 and Australia in 1911 while playing for Halifax. And get this – he even toured Australia and New Zealand with the 1910 Great Britain Lions, earning caps against Australia and Australasia!
• County King: He also proudly wore the Yorkshire cap while at Halifax.
• Challenge Cup Conqueror: Joe was no stranger to silverware! He played scrum-half in Halifax's 7-0 victory over Salford in the 1902–03 Challenge Cup Final. The next year, in the 1903–04 Challenge Cup Final, he was at centre and even scored a try in their 8-3 triumph over Warrington. What a legacy!
• Club Hero: Joe made his debut for Halifax on September 7, 1901. His playing career, sadly, was cut short by a badly broken leg sustained in a match against Bradford Northern in January 1915.
• A Well-Deserved Farewell: In 1920, a testimonial match was held for Joe and Asa Robinson at Thrum Hall, Halifax. A whopping 20,000 people showed up, and Joe received a cheque for £400 – a princely sum back then!
• Halifax Hall of Famer: It's no surprise that Joe Riley is a proud inductee into the Halifax Hall of Fame. His contributions to the sport are etched into the town's history.

So, while the headstone may be silent on Joe's individual triumphs, his story echoes through the history books and, thanks to a serendipitous moment at a railway station, now through the peaceful pathways of Sowerby Bridge Cemetery. It just goes to show, you never know what fascinating discoveries await when you keep your eyes (and your mind) open!

The pictures below were taken when I hopefully found his resting place. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The entrance to Sowerby Bridge Cemetery.

Joe Riley Gledhill parents grave and from my research also the final resting place of Joe.

The Gledhill family graves side by side.

A look across the un-consecrated section B at Sowerby Bridge cemetery.

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Through a Glass, Darkly: Hebden Bridge Railway Station in Negative

 There's something hauntingly beautiful about old photographs, especially when they're presented in a way that flips our perception. Take this image of Hebden Bridge Railway Station, for example. Inverted, with its sepia tones replaced by an eerie, almost ghostly palette, it transports us to a different time, a different perspective.

The familiar elements are all there: the sturdy platform, the elegant Victorian canopies, the parallel lines of the railway track stretching into the distance. But the inversion transforms them.

Hebden Bridge, nestled in the heart of the Calder Valley, has always possessed a certain mystique. Its dramatic landscape, with steep hillsides and winding rivers, lends itself to a sense of otherworldliness. This image, in its altered state, amplifies that feeling. We're not just looking at a railway station; we're peering into a portal, a glimpse of a parallel reality where light and shadow dance in an unfamiliar way.

The station itself, a vital artery connecting Hebden Bridge to the wider world, has witnessed countless journeys, departures, and arrivals. It's a place of transition, of anticipation, of memory. In this inverted image, those memories seem to echo with a strange resonance. We can almost hear the ghostly whistle of a steam train, the distant murmur of passengers, the rhythmic clatter of wheels on the tracks.

This photograph, shared by Colin Green, is more than just a visual curiosity. It's a reminder of the power of perspective, the way a simple shift in light and colour can transform our understanding of a familiar scene. It invites us to look closer, to see beyond the surface, to appreciate the beauty and the mystery that lies hidden in the ordinary.

So, the next time you find yourself at Hebden Bridge Railway Station, take a moment to pause and imagine it in this inverted light. Consider the countless stories that have unfolded on its platforms, the lives that have passed through its doors. And perhaps, just perhaps, you'll catch a glimpse of that other reality, that ghostly echo of the past, captured so beautifully in this haunting photograph.

The pictures below were originally taken with a Samsung Galaxy tablet in November 2013, a little editing with photoshop creating the finished product below.

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Bridge to Bridge: The Calder & Hebble from Mearclough and Copley

During a pleasant walk along the Calder & Hebble Navigation on May 7th, 2017, the following images were taken, capturing the serene natural beauty accessible just moments from a busy West Yorkshire town, a testament to the canal's unique charm

The first image, looking down the Calder & Hebble Navigation from Mearclough Bridge, it's hard to imagine the industrial heart that once pulsed here. This photograph, taken on May 7th, 2017, showcases a scene of pastoral tranquility, a world transformed from its working past. Where once the towering Canal Mills dominated the landscape, now nature reigns, softening the edges and creating a haven of green. The still waters reflect the verdant foliage, a stark contrast to the smoke and clamour that would have filled the air just decades ago. This image is a testament to the resilience of nature and the quiet beauty that has reclaimed this historic waterway.

Our journey continues along the towpath, where the tranquil ribbon of the canal is bordered by the vibrant green trees banking the expanse of Copley's playing fields. This next quartet of images captures a slice of time along this stretch, a place where the echoes of playful shouts and the quiet lapping of water create a unique harmony. Dominating the scene, and a silent sentinel of this landscape, is the venerable footbridge. For over a century and a half, its sturdy frame has spanned the canal, a testament to Victorian engineering and enduring craftsmanship. Imagine the countless journeys it has witnessed: the clatter of clogs on its wooden planks, the hushed whispers of lovers pausing to gaze at the still water, the steady passage of working boats laden with goods. Each rusted rivet and weathered beam holds a story, a whisper of the past. The bridge, more than just a crossing, is a living artifact, a stoic guardian watching over the canal's ever-flowing narrative. The play of light and shadow across its aged structure, the way it frames the landscape, and the subtle textures of its timeworn surfaces all contribute to a visual tapestry that speaks volumes about the passage of time and the enduring presence of history in our everyday surroundings.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.