Sgurr Nan Gillean and the Cuillin Hills, Isle of Skye.

Just a short post featuring a picture that forms part of a collection of images I am currently digitising, this shows the peak of Sgurr nan Gillean in the Cuillin Hills on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. Sgurr nan Gillean rises 3169ft above sea level and is stunning triangular profile can be viewed for miles around the hills. The reflections on the front of the image is of Loch Sligachan.

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The Mighty Wall of Todmorden

Have you ever wondered about the imposing wall that lines a stretch of the Rochdale Canal in Todmorden? It's not just a simple retaining wall; it's a testament to the industrial might of the 19th century.

A Canal's Guardian

Constructed in 1881, this colossal structure was erected to support the expansion of Todmorden railway station's goods yard. Over 4 million bricks were used to build this engineering marvel, which stretches from near Lock 19 (known Todmorden and Library Lock) to Dobroyd Bridge (Bridge No. 30).

A Bygone Era

Before the advent of railways, the Rochdale Canal was a vital artery for transporting goods. However, as rail networks expanded, the canal's importance diminished. The construction of the wall was to expand the railway goods yard at Todmorden Station.

A Forgotten Legacy

Today, the goods yard has long been abandoned, and the land above the wall is now a peaceful woodland path. The wall itself, however, remains a striking reminder of the industrial past of Todmorden. Its imposing presence and intricate brickwork continue to captivate visitors.

Capturing the Wall's Grandeur

To truly appreciate the scale and beauty of this historic structure, check out these photographs captured on August 27, 2018.

So, the next time you're exploring the picturesque Rochdale Canal, take a moment to admire the mighty wall of Todmorden. It's a hidden gem that deserves to be recognized and appreciated.

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The wall viewed from Dobroyd Bridge.

Dobroyd Bridge.

Todmorden Lock.

The following video features a slideshow of the 13 images that were originally posted and can be seen below and on YouTube.

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A Glimpse into the Past: Unearthing a Blackpool Illumination Gem from 1933

There's something uniquely satisfying about sifting through a collection, especially when it's something as tangible and evocative as vintage postcards. Each one holds a tiny slice of history, a frozen moment in time, often whispering tales of faraway places and long-forgotten journeys. Recently, while diving deep into my own sizeable postcard archives, I stumbled upon a true treasure that instantly caught my eye.

It's a postcard from the renowned Scottish publisher Valentine & Son of Dundee. For any postcard enthusiast, the Valentine name is synonymous with quality and a vast output of beautifully designed cards, particularly throughout the early to mid-20th century. This particular find, however, felt extra special.

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Blackpool's Dazzling Spectacle, Captured in Paint

The card features a vibrant depiction of the Blackpool Illuminations from the North Pier. What makes this one stand out is its captivating artistic style – it's not a photograph, but rather a beautifully rendered painting, transforming the electric spectacle into a work of art. The Blackpool Illuminations themselves are legendary, a beloved annual event that has drawn visitors to the Lancashire coast for over a century. To see them captured in this painterly fashion on a postcard from so long ago is truly a delight.

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A Date with History: 1933 and Beyond

One of the most fascinating aspects of collecting postcards is being able to date them, and this card offered a clear clue. Its serial number, 221812, definitively places its printing in 1933. That means this humble piece of cardstock is roughly 87 years old! Imagine the world in 1933: the Great Depression was in full swing, global tensions were simmering, and yet, here was Blackpool, offering a dazzling escape, immortalized on this very card.

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Unposted and Enduring

Despite its impressive age, this postcard tells another interesting story: it was never posted. There are no stamps, no handwritten messages, no postmarks to betray a journey through the postal system. It's a blank canvas, preserved almost as it was the day it rolled off the printing press. While it shows some signs of wear and tear, as you'd expect from an item approaching its ninth decade, its overall condition is remarkably good. The colours remain surprisingly vibrant, and the details of the painted scene are still wonderfully clear.

Holding this card, you can't help but wonder about its original owner. Was it bought as a souvenir and simply never sent? Did it sit in a drawer, waiting for a message that never came? Or perhaps it was part of a collection from the very beginning, cherished for its artistic merit and historical significance.

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This small, unposted postcard from 1933 is more than just a piece of paper; it's a tangible link to the past, a vibrant reminder of Blackpool's enduring appeal, and a testament to the artistry of Valentine & Son. It's moments like these, unearthing such gems, that make the hours spent sorting through a collection truly worthwhile.

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Then and Now: A Glimpse into Halifax's People's Park

There's something magical about holding a piece of history in your hands, especially when it offers a window into a familiar place from a bygone era. I recently acquired a charming old postcard depicting People's Park in Halifax, a true vintage gem looking from south to north towards the iconic Crossley Pavilion. As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to go and see how much – or how little – has changed.

Just a couple of weeks ago, I ventured out to recreate the postcard's perspective. The modern-day scene, captured in my recent photograph, tells a fascinating story of transformation. While the essence of the park remains, it's now noticeably more mature, with a lush canopy of trees that has grown significantly over the decades. In fact, the foliage is so dense that it now gracefully obscures the spire of the Park United Reformed Church. This church, which still stands proudly across the road from the park's north-western corner, has, I'm told, found new life as a business centre – a testament to how buildings adapt and evolve with the times.

What's truly captivating about these old postcards isn't just the visual record they provide, but also the fleeting personal messages they carry. The back of this particular postcard, while not bearing a postmark to date its journey, simply conveys "best wishes" to its recipients, a Mr & Mrs Butterfield of Leeds. It's a small, anonymous detail, yet it connects us directly to individuals from the past, adding a layer of human interest to the historical landscape.

Comparing these two images – the faded sepia of the postcard and the vibrant greens of today – offers a poignant reflection on the passage of time. People's Park continues to be a vital green space in Halifax, a place where generations have strolled, relaxed, and enjoyed nature. The trees have grown taller, buildings have repurposed, but the spirit of the park endures.

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The postcard I recently purchased.

A comparison shot from a similar position.

The modern comparison picture.

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Lockwood: A Station Through Time on the Penistone Line

In 2015, I embarked on a journey to capture the essence of the Penistone Line, aiming to photograph each railway station between Huddersfield and Penistone. That day, I managed to snap pictures of Berry Brow, Honley, Brockholes, Stocksmoor, Shepley, and Denby Dale. However, a few stations eluded my lens: Penistone and Huddersfield, which I still haven't visited, and Lockwood, which time simply got away from me.

Fast forward to July 25th, 2020. Back in Huddersfield, I finally made it a priority to visit Lockwood and complete my Penistone Line photographic quest. And what a fascinating stop it proved to be!

A Glimpse into Lockwood's Past

Lockwood Railway Station first opened its doors on July 1st, 1850, as a double-platform, twin-track stop. Located approximately 1.5 miles south of Huddersfield, just beyond the Lockwood Tunnel, it quickly became a vital part of the burgeoning railway network. Its significance grew further in August 1868 when it became a junction station with the opening of the Meltham Branch line for goods traffic, followed by passenger transport in July 1869.

The station remained staffed until the 1960s. However, after the closure of the Meltham Branch line in 1965, Lockwood Station, along with the entire Penistone Line, faced years of uncertainty and speculation about its future. Thankfully, the 1980s brought good news: the decision was made for the line to remain open, albeit as a single track. Today, you can still see the overgrown remains of the closed platform at Lockwood, with its connecting tunnel now blocked by a door – a silent testament to its past.

Modern Day Lockwood: A Quiet but Essential Stop

Today, Lockwood Station offers minimal facilities, including a small car park, step-free access, and a basic shelter. Despite its humble appearance, it plays an important role for local commuters. In 2018/19, the station served 40,006 passengers, averaging 769 passengers per week. While this was a decrease of over 11,000 passengers compared to 2015/16, the Penistone Line as a whole continues to be popular and is experiencing steady year-on-year growth. Lockwood Station currently enjoys hourly service in each direction daily.

The Dark History of Yew Green Tunnel

Immediately north of the station lies the 255-yard Yew Green Tunnel, more commonly known as Lockwood Tunnel. This tunnel holds a tragic secret, a grim incident that occurred even before the railway line officially opened.

In July 1849, with the tunnel complete but the tracks not yet laid, a group of men who had been drinking at a nearby inn decided to challenge each other to a race through the dark, unlit passage. Upon emerging, they realized one of their group was missing. Retracing their steps, they made a horrific discovery: the body of John Godly. It was believed he had tripped and broken his neck during the ill-fated race through the tunnel. A sobering reminder of the dangers inherent in the early days of railway construction.

Lockwood Station, with its rich history and quiet present, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Britain's railways. It's a place where you can almost hear the echoes of steam trains and imagine the lives that have passed through its platforms over the last 175 years.

Further Incidents and Industrial Echoes

The Yew Green Tunnel's unfortunate history doesn't end with John Godly. In March 1869, it was the scene of a rail crash when a passenger train and a goods train collided within its confines. Driver error was determined to be the cause, resulting in three injuries.

Just south of Lockwood Station, you'll find the impressive Lockwood Viaduct. While I didn't have time to photograph it on this visit, it's definitely on my list for a future trip! Interestingly, between the viaduct and the station lie the remains of the coal drops. These eight former coal drops, which once served the area's industrial needs, still stand today, repurposed as a car park. They also feature a tunnel that connects both sides of Howarth Lane, offering another intriguing glimpse into the past.

The pictures were taken using a Nikon d3300 on the 25th August 2020, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Happy Birthday Mollie - Vintage Postcard

There's something uniquely charming about old postcards. They're not just pieces of paper; they're tiny time capsules, carrying messages and memories across the decades. In my own collection of celebratory postcards, there's a fascinating set sent to a woman named Mollie from various family members over a number of years. I'm excited to start sharing these little snippets of history with you.

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The First Glimpse: A Simple Message from Dad

To kick things off, let's look at the very first card in the collection, a sweet memento Mollie received from her Dad on September 14th, 1936.

What strikes you immediately about this particular card is its beautiful simplicity. The front, which I can only imagine held a cheerful image fitting for a celebration, is unfortunately not something I have to share with you today. But the rear of the card tells its own story. It's clean and unfussy, bearing just two key pieces of information: "Mollie Stuart" written clearly, indicating the recipient, and then, signed simply "From Dad" with the date prominently displayed.

It's a testament to a time when communication, even celebratory, could be succinct yet deeply personal. There's no lengthy message, no flowery prose, just a direct and heartfelt acknowledgment from a father to his daughter.

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A Glimpse into the Past: Ellingham Church and a Mysterious Postcard

As a collector of vintage postcards, each new acquisition is like opening a tiny time capsule. The latest addition to my collection, a postcard depicting Ellingham Church near Ringwood, is no exception. While it offers a visual window into a bygone era, the sparse message on its reverse leaves much to the imagination, inviting us to ponder the stories it might hold.

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The Postcard Itself

This particular card is a Judges of Hastings production, a familiar name to many postcard enthusiasts. The front showcases a charming view of what is formally known as St Mary and All Saints Church, situated approximately two miles north of Ringwood in the quaint village of Ellingham.

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A Stamp of Its Time

Turning the card over reveals a King George VI stamp, a detail that helps us pinpoint its journey through time. This specific stamp was released in 1937, placing our postcard firmly in the late 1930s. Imagine a time when news travelled much slower, and a postcard was a common, cherished way to send greetings or share a snippet of your travels.

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The Enigma of the Message

However, it's the message – or rather, the lack thereof – that truly makes this postcard intriguing. Apart from a postal address, there's not a single word. No "Wish you were here," no "Having a grand time," not even a simple signature. It seems the sender was a person of very few words, choosing to let the image speak for itself and provide only the bare minimum for its delivery.

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Who Sent It? Why So Brief?

This brevity sparks a myriad of questions. Was the sender in a hurry? Did they perhaps intend to follow up with a longer letter? Or was this postcard merely a practical way to confirm an address or signify their presence in Ellingham without needing to elaborate? We're left to wonder about the sender's identity and their relationship with the recipient. Was it a family member, a friend, or perhaps someone conducting business? The possibilities are endless, and the silence on the card only amplifies its mystery.

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The Enduring Charm of Postcards

This Ellingham Church postcard, with its beautiful imagery and enigmatic message, is a perfect example of why I find these small pieces of paper so captivating. They offer us not just a glimpse of historical architecture or landscapes, but also a peek into the social customs and communication methods of the past. Each one is a silent witness to a moment in time, carrying with it a fragment of someone's story, whether fully told or, in this case, left tantalizingly untold.

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A Return to the Rails: Standedge Tunnel Adventures

After what felt like an eternity of lockdown, the opportunity finally arose for a proper outing with my camera in hand. My destination? The picturesque village of Marsden in Huddersfield. The plan was simple enough: a short train ride from Slaithwaite to Marsden, followed by a leisurely stroll back along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. But as often happens when exploring, a new, more intriguing path presented itself.

Just a stone's throw from Marsden Station lies the magnificent Standedge Tunnel, a true marvel of engineering. My initial goal was to capture a pristine shot of the tunnel entrances. Despite my best efforts, getting a clear, unobstructed view proved challenging. However, while scouting for a higher vantage point, I found myself captivated by the rhythmic rumble of approaching trains. It was then that I decided to shift my focus and capture these powerful machines as they prepared to plunge into the darkness of the tunnels.

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Catching the Newcastle to Liverpool Service

One particular highlight was the 10:46 Newcastle to Liverpool Lime Street service. I managed to capture it at 12:47 as it gracefully crossed Bridge 61 over the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, just moments before disappearing into the tunnel. The train's unique identification number was N03709, and its headcode was 5341.

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Equipment and The Experience

These shots were taken on July 25, 2020, with my trusty Nikon D3300 SLR. This outing wasn't just about getting great photos; it was also my very first proper trip out with my camera since the easing of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions in the UK. The simple act of being out, exploring, and pursuing my passion felt incredibly liberating after months of confinement.

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The following video was taken later in the day and features a number of trains exiting and entering the tunnel.
 

 

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A Postcard from Burnham-on-Sea's Manor Gardens

Today, let's step back in time with a fascinating find from my personal collection: a beautiful, unposted postcard depicting the charming Manor Gardens in Burnham-on-Sea. What makes this particular card so intriguing isn't just the picturesque scene, but the mystery surrounding its origins and the delightful message it carries.

At the heart of the image stands the bandstand, a classic feature of many early 20th-century public gardens, undoubtedly a focal point for leisure and entertainment back in its day. Even now, the Manor Gardens remain a beloved green space in Burnham-on-Sea, a testament to their enduring appeal.

While the postcard itself bears no postmark, making an exact date elusive, I'd hazard a guess that it hails from the post-First World War period. This era saw a resurgence in seaside holidays and leisure activities, making Burnham-on-Sea a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and enjoyment.

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A Message from the Past

Despite never being mailed, this postcard carries a handwritten message, offering a precious, albeit partial, glimpse into the lives of its senders. The faded script, though challenging to decipher completely, reads as follows:

"Dear Phyliss we are having a lovely time plenty of attractions and crowds of people we are getting along nicely we have lovely lodgings and quite near the sea front you'll wish you were here we are first going to the Manor Gardens love _____ and _____."

Sadly, the names of the senders are illegible, lost to the passage of time. Yet, even without their identities, their words paint a vivid picture: a joyful holiday filled with "plenty of attractions and crowds of people," comfortable "lovely lodgings" close to the sea, and a clear sense of contentment and happiness. One can almost feel their excitement as they anticipate their visit to the Manor Gardens, perhaps to enjoy a bandstand concert or a leisurely stroll amidst the flowers.

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This postcard, unposted and anonymous as it may be, serves as a poignant reminder of simpler times and the enduring pleasure of a seaside escape. It’s a tiny fragment of history, allowing us to imagine the lives and experiences of those who visited Burnham-on-Sea over a century ago.

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A Glimpse into the Past: Weston-Super-Mare, 1917

magine holding a piece of history in your hands, a tangible link to a time long past. That's precisely the feeling evoked by a recent discovery: a vintage postcard mailed over a century ago, on September 12th, 1917. Despite the ravages of time, this postcard offers a fascinating, albeit faded, window into the Edwardian era, specifically featuring the charming Marine Parade Gardens and Rozel Shelter in Weston-Super-Mare.

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Echoes of a Bygone Era: The Faded Message

The most poignant aspect of this postcard is its badly faded written message. While the postal print remains remarkably clear, the personal words intended for a loved one have largely succumbed to time, leaving us to wonder about the full sentiment they once conveyed. However, with careful deciphering, a fragment of the past emerges:

Mr F Denning,
30 Hanham Road, Kingswood, Bristol.

Dear Dady, just a few lines hoping you arrived home alright and what time did you get home last night

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A Snapshot of Daily Life Amidst Global Conflict

It's humbling to consider that this simple message, inquiring about a father's safe return, was penned in the midst of World War I. While battles raged across Europe, life continued on the home front. This postcard serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring human need for connection and reassurance, even in the most tumultuous times. It speaks to the everyday concerns and affections that persisted amidst the broader global conflict.

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Then and Now: Weston-Super-Mare's Enduring Beauty

The image itself transports us to Marine Parade Gardens and Rozel Shelter. A natural question arises: does the Rozel Shelter still stand today? While its fate remains a mystery without further investigation, we do know that the Marine Gardens themselves have stood the test of time, continuing to grace Weston-Super-Mare with their beauty. This contrast between the potentially lost and the enduring offers a compelling insight into the evolution of our landscapes.

The back of the card offers another tangible link to the past: a King George V Half Penny stamp remains firmly attached, a small but significant detail that helps date the postcard and grounds it in its historical context.

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This vintage postcard, with its faded script and enduring imagery, is more than just a piece of paper; it's a whisper from the past, inviting us to contemplate the lives of those who walked these paths before us. It sparks curiosity about the stories behind the names, the everyday moments that made up a lifetime, and the remarkable resilience of both nature and human connection.

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What other forgotten messages do you think are waiting to be discovered, telling tales of a world we can only imagine?

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