From a family history point of view, it is surely very sad to come across old photographs that contain no information as to who, where or what is in the photograph. This is an event that happens regularly, when people buy, inherit or are given a family collection of photographs or postcards. The frustration of trying to establish who was who, or where was that picture taken, can be considerable. However, when the owner is fortunate enough to identify some aspect within an historic image of this type, the genealogical or local history rewards are quite often sure to be significant.

The photographs displayed here are from our small but increasing collection of assorted, and for the most part, unidentified personal photographs and postcards. The bulk of the collection is in reality a series of unconnected people, places and events from the past that are now in a kind of historical limbo. At present, this collection dates to around the 1880's-1950's. Almost all are thought to be somewhere in Great Britain. A few have some form of identifying feature, such as a signature, or the name and address of the photographer. However, the majority can only be identified (if at all) from the contents of the subjects illustrated.

The collection is being assembled basically for two reasons. Firstly, to save the photographs for posterity. Many are liable to be the sole remaining example of what the photographer has recorded. Secondly, to provide useful genealogical and local history information, albeit from a position of obscurity. So far, most of the photographs are either individual portraits, and family or general groups. These also include soldiers and military subjects around the period of the 1st World War.

It would be a considerable high-light for us if you were able to identify anybody or anything which is shown in this section. Perhaps you recognise a relation or friend. Maybe you can give some detail about a uniform, or building, or street that might help identify when or where the photograph was taken. Any information you can give is greatly appreciated. If you are sending any information, please remember to quote the photographs unique identity number.

In time, it is hoped to update this section by illustrating all the photographs in the collection. Meanwhile, if you are able to provide information about any of the current illustrations, please Contact Us

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