It's always a special feeling to hold a piece of history in your hands, and a 35mm slide like the one you've shared offers just that – a vibrant, tangible link to the past. This particular image, depicting the Long Market in Canterbury, Kent, is a fascinating snapshot that allows us to reflect on the area's evolution.
Let's dive into the history of this intriguing spot and try to pinpoint when your photo might have been taken!
The Long Market: From Humble Beginnings to Modern Hub
The area now known as the Long Market has a deep and continuous history, stretching back centuries. As its name suggests, it has long been associated with trade and commerce, a vital artery for the city of Canterbury. Imagine the hustle and bustle through the ages: medieval merchants hawking their wares, Roman citizens (given the nearby "Roman Pavement" sign in your image!) going about their daily lives, and countless generations passing through this very spot.
The most striking feature in your photograph is undoubtedly the modernist building with its large glass windows, housing "Frank & Tony Wares Shop" and "Lotus" – names that instantly evoke a certain mid-20th-century charm. This architectural style, often characterized by clean lines, functional design, and a focus on light, was a prominent feature of post-war reconstruction and urban development across Britain.
Dating Your Photograph: A Detective's Task!
Dating historical photographs can be a fun challenge, and your slide gives us some excellent clues!
Architecture: The prominent modernist building is a key indicator. Such designs became popular from the late 1940s through the 1960s and early 70s. Its style suggests it was likely built as part of Canterbury's post-war regeneration efforts after the significant damage sustained during World War II.
Shop Names: "Frank & Tony Wares Shop" and "Lotus" provide potential avenues for research. While "Lotus" is a well-known brand (though perhaps not for the type of shop seen here), "Frank & Tony" sounds like a local business. Checking old city directories or business records from Canterbury might reveal when these shops operated at this specific location.
Fashion: The two women in the foreground are excellent fashion indicators. Their coats, hairstyles, and handbags appear consistent with late 1960s to early 1970s styles. The hemlines, structured silhouettes, and general aesthetic lean strongly towards this period.
Vehicles (or lack thereof): While no cars are clearly visible in the immediate foreground, the absence of more contemporary vehicle designs (or the presence of older ones in the distance if zoomed in) could also offer clues.
"Roman Pavement" Sign: This sign refers to an archaeological site of interest, likely a preserved section of Roman road or mosaic uncovered during building works. Such discoveries were often made during urban redevelopment, further cementing the post-war context of the surrounding buildings.
Considering all these elements, especially the fashion and the architectural style, I would confidently place your photograph somewhere in the late 1960s, possibly around 1968-1972. It's a fantastic example of the era's urban landscape!
The Long Market Today
The Long Market, like many urban spaces, has continued to evolve. While the exact shops may have changed, it remains a bustling part of Canterbury, connecting the city's ancient past with its vibrant present. The modernist building might still stand, perhaps repurposed, or it might have been replaced by even newer developments. The essence of the market, however, as a place of gathering and commerce, undoubtedly endures.
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