Echoes in Stone: Exploring the Forgotten Beauty of Wainhouse Terrace

 There are places that whisper stories of the past, their stones imbued with the echoes of lives lived and forgotten. Wainhouse Terrace in King Cross, Halifax, is one such place. Tucked away near the impressive Wainhouse Tower, this intriguing structure, often overlooked, offers a captivating glimpse into Victorian ambition and nature's relentless embrace.

Walking along what was once a grand promenade, you can't help but feel a sense of serene melancholy. The sturdy stone walls, once meticulously maintained, now bear the marks of time and weather. Overgrown pathways, with creeping vines and wild grasses reclaiming the carefully laid bricks, lead you deeper into its forgotten corridors. Sunlight filters through the leafy canopy, casting dappled shadows on decaying facades and hinting at the structure's former glory.

The architectural details are still striking – the robust columns, arched doorways, and intricate stonework speak of a time when craftsmanship was paramount. Yet, juxtaposed against this solid construction is the pervasive sense of decay. Broken flagstones lie scattered, testament to the years of neglect. Staircases, some spiralling into hidden depths, beckon the curious, while others lead to nowhere, their purpose long since lost to the overgrowth.

Perhaps the most poignant aspect is the way nature has intertwined itself with the man-made. Trees sprout from unexpected crevices, their roots slowly but surely asserting their dominance. Greenery cascades over walls and through empty window frames, transforming the rigid lines of the architecture into a softer, wilder landscape. It's a powerful reminder of nature's ability to reclaim, to soften edges, and to eventually, gracefully consume.

Even with its current state of disrepair, Wainhouse Terrace holds a unique allure for those drawn to urban exploration, forgotten places, and the beauty of decay. It’s a photographer's dream, with its dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, the starkness of stone against the vibrancy of green. And in the distance, often peering through the trees, the iconic Wainhouse Tower stands as a stoic sentinel, a silent witness to the passage of time and the changing fortunes of its smaller, more intimate neighbour.

Wainhouse Terrace isn't just a collection of old buildings; it's a testament to history, a canvas for nature's artistry, and a place that invites contemplation about the transient nature of human endeavours. If you find yourself in Halifax, venture off the beaten path and discover the quiet, captivating beauty of this forgotten gem. You might just find yourself lost in its echoes, and all the richer for the experience.

I took these pictures on the 3rd October 2017 with a Nikon d3300, clicking on any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

The River Thames: From Woolwich Ferry's Perspective

 There's something uniquely captivating about the River Thames, a historic artery that winds its way through the heart of London. And one of the most intriguing ways to experience its dynamic character is from the deck of the Woolwich Ferry. In April 2016, armed with my trusty Nikon d3300, I had the pleasure of capturing a few moments from this vantage point, revealing different facets of the river and its surroundings.

The first view, looking eastward from the ferry terminal, offered a classic London panorama. Under a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds, the river stretched out towards the horizon. The iconic silhouette of the Canary Wharf skyline dominated the distant cityscape, a testament to London's ever-evolving urban landscape. Closer to the shore, the muddy banks at low tide hinted at the river's tidal nature, while a lone vessel navigated the waterways, adding a touch of life to the scene. The low, yellow-tinged wall of the ferry terminal in the foreground served as a constant reminder of our unique position.

Then, as the ferry embarked on its journey, the perspective shifted. Looking eastward from the ferry itself, the glint of sunlight on the water was mesmerizing. The sun, lower in the sky, cast shimmering reflections across the waves, creating a dazzling path of light. The buildings along the river's edge, slightly silhouetted by the brightness, appeared as a continuous urban ribbon, hinting at the bustling life beyond the water's edge. The movement of the ferry created ripples, adding to the dynamic visual of the river.

Finally, a view of the North Shore from the moving ferry presented a different kind of tranquillity. The sun, less direct, allowed for a clearer view of the buildings lining the northern bank. The water here seemed calmer, with broader stretches of deep blue. The presence of other boats, including what appeared to be other ferries or workboats, reinforced the Thames as a working river, constantly in motion. The overall impression was one of vastness and continuity, with the river flowing steadily onward.

These snapshots, taken from the unique vantage point of the Woolwich Ferry, truly capture the essence of the River Thames – a blend of historical grandeur, modern urbanity, natural beauty, and ceaseless activity. It's a journey that offers a fresh perspective on a familiar landmark, and one I highly recommend for anyone looking to see London from a different angle.

Clicking any of the images above should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the photographs remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Glimpse into Maritime History: Admiralty Pier, Dover Postcard

There's something uniquely captivating about old postcards. They're not just pieces of paper; they're tiny time capsules, offering a snapshot of a moment long past, a glimpse into landscapes, architecture, and daily life that may have changed dramatically. Today, I want to share a particular treasure from my collection: a vintage postcard depicting the iconic Admiralty Pier in Dover.

Looking at this sepia-toned image, I'm immediately transported to a bustling scene on the English Channel. The perspective from the pier itself stretches out into the vastness of the water, with the sturdy railings leading the eye towards the distant horizon. The details are what truly bring this image to life:

• The imposing structure of the Admiralty Pier: Built to withstand the relentless power of the sea, the pier itself is a testament to Victorian engineering ambition. Its robust construction speaks volumes about its purpose – to provide shelter and facilitate the vital maritime traffic of Dover.
• The lighthouse at the end: A beacon of safety for countless mariners, the lighthouse stands as a silent sentinel, guiding ships through the busy waters.
• Vessels in the background: Although somewhat indistinct, we can make out what appears to be a ship further out, perhaps a cross-channel ferry or a cargo vessel, highlighting Dover's role as a major port. The smaller structures in the water hint at the complex infrastructure needed to support such a busy maritime gateway.
• The vastness of the Channel: The sea itself, with its gentle swells, evokes the constant movement and energy of this critical waterway.

Why is the Admiralty Pier so significant?

The Admiralty Pier in Dover is more than just a pier; it's a monument to Britain's maritime heritage and its strategic importance. Its construction began in 1847, driven by the need for a deep-water harbour to accommodate the growing naval fleet and to serve as a vital link for cross-channel communication and trade. For decades, it was a hub of activity, witnessing the departure and arrival of countless ships, soldiers, royalty, and ordinary travellers.

Think of the stories this pier could tell! It would have seen:

• Victorian grandeur: The departure of well-dressed passengers on their grand tours of Europe.
• Wartime readiness: The comings and goings of naval vessels during various conflicts, especially the World Wars, given Dover's critical role in defending the realm.
• The evolution of travel: From paddle steamers to more modern vessels, the pier adapted to the changing face of maritime transport.

Dating the Postcard

While there's no precise date on the postcard itself, the style of the photograph, the sepia tone, and the general appearance of the vessels and pier suggest it likely dates from the early 20th century, perhaps between 1900 and 1930. This was a golden age for postcards, which served as both mementos and a primary means of quick communication. The "208/105" in the bottom right corner is a publisher's reference number, common on postcards of that era.

A Piece of My Collection, A Piece of History

For me, this postcard is more than just an image; it's a tangible link to a pivotal location in British history. It sparks curiosity about the people who walked that pier, the ships that docked there, and the events that unfolded against its backdrop. It serves as a reminder of Dover's enduring role as the "Gateway to England" and the sheer ambition and engineering prowess of generations past.

Clicking the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Shop My Zazzle Must Have

I took the plunge and opened my own Zazzle stores earlier this year, and I'm thrilled with how they've been doing so far. To give a taste of what I offer, I've curated a selection of 10 popular selling designs I have available on my stores. Let's dive in!

My first set of 3 designs is taken from my Calderdale Unframed Store, I offer various designs their with links to the Metropolitan Borough of Calderdale, West Yorkshire.

Mug of the Piece Hall based on a photo I took shortly after the Hall re-opened.

Postcard of the Calder and Hebble Navigation.

Shopping Bag featuring an artwork of Sowerby Bridges main road, Wharf Street.

This is just 3 of the currently 355 products I have available on Calderdale Unframed. I tend to offer my designs on postcards, clocks and coffee mugs, occasionally extending it to others, but all my images can be transferred and edited to products of your choosing.

The next 4 products are some of my popular featured designs on Colin's Picture This store, my designs here tend to be on postcards, clocks and many other products, but like above can be transferred to a number of different products as per your requirements. The pictures are all taken outside the boundaries of Calderdale.

Ship Inn and Hunt's Cliff, Saltburn, available as a postcard.

Headingley Stadiums, Leeds, home of Yorkshire CCC and Leeds Rhinos RLFC. Available as a postcard and Mug.

Postcard of the Palace of Westminster, London.

Mug featuring an artwork of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland.

This is just a small selection of my designs on Colin's Picture This, currently their are 583 different offers available, all of which can be transferred to alternative products as required.

My final set of 3 images is taken from my Colin Green Photography Zazzle Store, I only offer my photo's as wall art on this store.

Allan Park Walkway. 

Brown Bank Bridge, Rochdale Canal at Smithy Bridge near Rochdale.

Oats Royd Mill, Booth

I currently have 414 products available on the Colin_Green_Photography Zazzle Store.

Clicking any image will open a link in another window to the respective store featured. All my designs on Zazzle can be transferred to alternative products and even changed black and white, sepia and a number of alternative filters. They can also be cropped differently as per requirements.

Thanks for taking the time to look, please take a moment to view my stores.

Church of St Nicholas, Dunkeswell: A Historic Gem

Nestled in the beautiful English countryside near Honiton, Devon, lies the charming Church of St. Nicholas. With a history stretching back centuries, this church offers a unique blend of architectural styles and a warm welcome to all.

While the current building dates back to the mid-19th century, the site itself has been home to a place of worship for much longer. Intriguingly, the church's Norman font, adorned with mysterious figures, hints at an even older religious presence.

Step inside St. Nicholas and be greeted by the elegant Decorated Gothic design. The recent tower rebuild adds a touch of modern resilience to this historic structure. Interestingly, the original tower fell victim to the vibrations of wartime machinery stationed nearby!

The church is more than just beautiful stonework. The congregation is known for its friendliness and strong sense of community. Whether you're a local resident or simply passing through, you're warmly invited to join their Sunday services or spend a moment of quiet reflection in the church, which is open daily for prayer.

St. Nicholas also boasts some unique traditions. They hold a special service commemorating the Battle of Britain, alongside an annual American Memorial Service honouring those who served in Dunkeswell during World War II.

So, if you find yourself exploring Devon's stunning countryside, be sure to add St. Nicholas Church, Dunkeswell, to your itinerary. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into the area's rich history and a chance to connect with a welcoming community.

I previously posted about the church of St Nicholas and the nearby Dunkeswell Methodist Church on the 4th October 2021. The pictures below are some I recently re-edited for inclusion on various products I have for sale on my Zazzle store. Please take a moment to check out my stores, they can also be seen on my Clickasnap account in a higher resolution.

These images can be purchased on various products including postcards, mugs and clocks on Colin's Picture This Zazzle store, and in various posters and wall art from the C_Green_photography Store. These also include different versions including black and white, sepia, 1974 and vendredi styles. The images can also be transferred on to many other products as per your requirements.

Clicking the images should open a link to my C_G_photography or Colins_picture_this Zazzle stores, links will open in another window. Please take a minute to check out my stores, photo4me and Clickasnap profiles.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Burnley Barracks Railway Station

 Burnley Barracks is a railway station on the East Lancashire Line. It is a request stop and offers a card only ticket machine and basic shelter as its only facilities. It has step free access but no car parking facilities other than on street parking. The station being only a request stop, 1 of 4 on the East Lancashire line is not a busy station although in the last full year of passenger figures 2020/21 attracted 9316, the previous 4 years averaging 21561 per annum, a drop in numbers of 12245.

The station became a request stop on the 14th May 2012, this means you have to inform the ticket inspector you would like to get off the train, or give a clear signal to the driver you would like to board. On the day I visited this was the busiest station of the 8 on the East Lancashire I visited with 3 passengers boarding and 2 alighting the train. The stations close location to both Rose Grove a few hundred metres east, and Burnley Central a few hundred metres west has Barracks earmarked for closure should the lines connection with Skipton and upgrade of the line come to fruition.

Colne bound training just leaving. It would 45 minutes before another train passed through the station.
There is 1 train in each direction approx. every hour.

Burnley Barracks opened on the 18th September 1848, it was the temporary terminus of the line yet to be completed to Colne and known as Burnley Westgate. In February 1849 the station was closed as the line was completed and there it's story was supposed to end, however development of the local area in to housing, industry and an army barracks led to Burnley Westgate reopening in September 1851, taking its name from the nearby cavalry barracks. The station opened as a 2 platform stop connected by a footbridge that dealt on the whole with just passengers, the nearby stations Rose Grove and Bank Top (Burnley Central) handling the goods traffic. The former eastbound platform remains although this is now largely overgrown and not visible, this was taken out of use when the line was singled beyond Rose Grove Station in 1986.

The army barracks closed in December 1898, and slum clearances of the local area in the 1960's and 70's led to declining passenger numbers, the construction of the nearby M65 motorway contributing to this too. The station has seen a steady rise of passenger use in recent years with new housing developments and peoples reluctance to use the car increasing.

There are a total of 5 pictures I took around the station, they can be seen here or on Clickasnap where they are full size, resolution and un-watermarked. Copies can be purchased there too if required.

The entrance sign to the station

The station looking west from the end of the platform. Despite Junction Street Bridge (Foreground)
and Padiham Road Bridge (Background) passing over the station, the 2 platforms were connected
by a wooden passenger bridge sighted between the 2. I assume this was removed when the line
was singled in the 1980's, but it may have been earlier as there is evidence on another site entrance
just off Junction Street Bridge.

The station looking eastward (towards Colne) from the end of the platform. The stations only
facilities are the shelter seen before the bridge and a ticket machine to my right
just out of shot.

Thanks for looking and please take a moment to share. All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

The Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company Sign

 A picture I took in January 2014 that I found mildly interesting and wanted to know a little more, the plaques were on the side of a building at 125 Northwood Street, Birmingham and the company occupying the building that I was there to deal with were AE Harris & Company (Birmingham) an engineering company that as of 10 June 2022 no longer seem to occupy the site but are still trading. Looking on google maps it appears most of the site has been cleared for development.

The Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company was established in 1854 for the purpose of building locomotives and carriages for use on the railway. Despite the name the company also built aeroplanes, gliders, buses, trolleybuses, and tanks, which during World War II included A10 Cruiser Tank, Challenger Tank, Churchill Tank, Challenger Tank and Valentine Tank.

The company saw a decline in locomotive and carriage stock being built up to 1963, which was the year they restructured, dividing the works up in to smaller units and becoming a real estate and finance company. In June 2014 the company reformed as a not for profit organisation to rebuild locomotives from the 1960 and earlier no longer in use.

The picture can also be seen on Clickasnap full size, resolution and un-watermarked.

Thanks for looking and please take a moment to share, all pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Brighouse Library & The Smith Art Gallery.

Originally built as the Rydings in 1841 for miller John Brooke the buildings were bought by the town of Brighouse in 1897 and converted to the Brighouse Library. The grounds were converted in to a public park, indeed the first public park in Brighouse by Charles Kershaw in 1898.

The Smith Art Gallery was opened in May 1907, and named after William Smith a local mill owner who paid for the construction and much of the art featured in the gallery. It was opened by Princess Louise who was the first member of the royal family to visit Brighouse.

There are 2 galleries having originally had 4. The front gallery features an exhibition of oil paintings including works by John Atkinson Grimshaw, a Victorian era artist from Leeds, Marcus Stone an English painter from London and member of the Royal Academy, and Thomas Sydney Cooper, a landscape artist from Canterbury. 

The rear gallery host a constantly changing display, from local artists, touring exhibitions, photography and sculptures.

The pictures were taken on the 14 December 2013 using a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to the Clickasnap version of the image.

Thanks for looking and please take a moment to share and follow me on social media.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Glimpse into the Past: Unposted Vintage UK Postcards

There's something truly special about holding a piece of history in your hands, especially when it offers a window into a bygone era. We're excited to share a recent find: a set of six vintage postcards, each approximately 80 to 90 years old, all from the UK and, fascinatingly, all unposted. While their unposted nature makes precise dating a challenge, their charm and historical significance are undeniable.

Let's take a closer look at each one:

Flatford Bridge, Essex

Our first postcard features the picturesque Flatford Bridge, a well-known landmark situated about 13 miles northeast of Colchester, Essex. This charming bridge gracefully crosses the River Stour. The card itself was published by Judges LTD, Hastings, a prolific postcard publisher of the era.

Guy's Cliff Bridge and Waterfall, Warwickshire

Next up is a beautiful scene of Guy's Cliff Bridge and Waterfall, where the River Avon flows past Saxon Mill in Warwickshire. This card was published by W.A. Lenton of Leamington Spa, capturing a serene moment in the English countryside.

North Gate, Totnes, Devon

The third postcard transports us to the Devonshire town of Totnes, showcasing its iconic North Gate. This gateway holds historical importance, being a Grade II listed structure. This particular card is part of the Sepiatype Series by Valentine's, known for their distinctive sepia-toned images.

Bristol Cathedral

Moving on, we have a postcard depicting the grand Bristol Cathedral. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to centuries of history in the heart of Bristol.

Montgomery from Kerry Road, Powys, Wales

Our penultimate postcard offers a view of Montgomery as seen from Kerry Road. The name "Montgomery" is an English translation of "the town of Baldwin," and this town holds a unique position as a border town in Powys, Wales.

Temple Speech Room, Rugby

Finally, our set concludes with a postcard of the Temple Speech Room in Rugby. This impressive building is a notable feature of the historic town. This card, like the North Gate one, was also published by Valentine's, this time from Leamington Spa.

Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnap using the links below. Your support means a lot!