Postcard's fom the Past. Fir Tree Pond, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent.

Our final glimpse into the past today takes us to the serene waters of Fir Tree Pond, nestled on the common in the elegant Royal Tunbridge Wells. This isn't just any picture postcard; it's a tangible link to a summer day over a century ago, a fleeting moment captured in ink and paper.

Imagine holding this very card, its edges softened by time and handling. It bears the indelible mark of its journey through the postal system: a clear postmark dated 3rd July 1913. Think of the world as it was then, just a year before the outbreak of the Great War, a world powered by horses and early automobiles, where communication relied on the steady rhythm of the postal service.

Affixed to the back is a humble yet significant detail: a King George V half penny green stamp. This small piece of adhesive paper, bearing the profile of the reigning monarch, speaks volumes about the era. It's a tiny window into the visual language and currency of the time.

This particular postcard wasn't merely a scenic view; it served its intended purpose. It was posted, embarking on a journey from the genteel surroundings of Royal Tunbridge Wells to a Miss Ratcliffe residing at 4 Market Street, Nottingham. One can almost picture the postman, perhaps on a bicycle, delivering this small piece of news.

And what news did it carry? Here, the story becomes a little more enigmatic. The handwritten message, faded and perhaps smudged over the years, proved a challenge to decipher. Yet, through the veil of time, fragments emerge. A polite acknowledgment: "thanks for a previous letter". This simple phrase hints at an ongoing correspondence, a connection between two individuals separated by distance.

Then, a universal observation, one that transcends time and place: "the weather was raining". A quintessential British summer's day, it seems, even in 1913! This small detail grounds the image, making the scene feel more real, more relatable. We can almost feel the dampness in the air, see the raindrops dimpling the surface of Fir Tree Pond.

Who was the sender? What were the contents of that "previous letter"? What were Miss Ratcliffe's thoughts upon receiving this damp missive? These are the silent questions that echo from this small piece of ephemera.

This postcard of Fir Tree Pond is more than just a pretty picture. It's a snapshot of a specific moment in time, carrying echoes of human connection and the everyday realities of life over a hundred years ago. It reminds us that even the simplest of objects can hold fascinating stories, waiting to be pieced together from the faint whispers of the past.

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A Glimpse Through Time: Leicester's Hospital, Warwick.

Holding this postcard, the familiar weight of aged cardstock in my hand, I'm transported not just to the charming medieval town of Warwick, but to a place steeped in history and quiet dedication: the Lord Leycester Hospital. It's more than just a picturesque building captured in sepia tones (or perhaps vibrant hues, depending on its vintage); it's a tangible link to centuries of care and service.

The subject of this particular piece of my ever-growing postcard collection is, as the name suggests, the Lord Leycester Hospital. But "hospital" in this context isn't the bustling medical facility we might imagine today. Instead, this remarkable institution stands as a beacon of enduring charity, a haven established in the late 16th century by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. Its purpose then, as it remains today, is to provide support and accommodation for ex-servicemen and their wives or widows.

Think about that for a moment. While grand castles and bustling market squares often dominate historical narratives, here we have a place specifically designed to care for those who have served their country. Each stone of the Lord Leycester Hospital whispers tales of loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring need to support those who have borne the burdens of conflict.

Looking closely at the image on the postcard – perhaps it captures the iconic timber-framed architecture, the serene Master's Garden, or the imposing gateway – I can almost feel the echoes of past residents. Imagine the conversations held within those ancient walls, the camaraderie forged through shared experiences, the quiet dignity of lives dedicated to service.

This postcard, therefore, transcends its simple function as a piece of correspondence. It's a miniature window into a world where compassion and community have stood the test of time. It's a reminder that history isn't just about battles and monarchs; it's also about the enduring efforts to care for one another.

As a small part of my larger collection, this postcard of the Lord Leycester Hospital holds a special significance. It represents not just a beautiful building, but a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of human kindness and the importance of remembering and supporting those who have served. It's a story etched in ink and paper, a story I'm proud to hold within my hands.

What stories do your own collections hold? Have you ever encountered a seemingly simple object that unlocked a deeper understanding of history or human connection?

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A Century-Old Glimpse of Dartmeet, Devon

Holding this postcard, the smooth, slightly yellowed surface a testament to time, feels like cradling a tiny window into the past. It's more than just a piece of cardstock; it's a silent witness, a tangible link to a Devon landscape a century removed from our own.

The image itself captures the iconic meeting of the East and West Dart rivers at Dartmeet. Even in this static, sepia-toned moment, you can almost hear the gentle rush of water as the two streams embrace, their individual journeys merging into a single, stronger flow. The ancient clapper bridge, a rugged spine of granite, stands sentinel over the confluence, its weathered stones bearing the footsteps of generations.

Imagine the scene a hundred years ago. Perhaps a horse-drawn cart trundles across the bridge, its wheels echoing on the stone. Maybe picnickers, dressed in the fashions of the era, spread blankets on the riverbank, their laughter carried on the breeze. Were there anglers casting lines into the clear waters, hoping for a catch? The postcard doesn't tell us these stories directly, but it ignites the imagination, prompting us to fill in the details of a bygone era.

This isn't just a pretty picture; it's a historical artifact. Think about the journey this small piece of paper has taken. It was likely purchased as a memento, a tangible reminder of a visit to this beautiful spot. Perhaps it was sent to a loved one, carrying a brief message of "wish you were here" or a simple update on travels. Who held it? What were their lives like? Did they ever return to Dartmeet?

Holding this approximately century-old postcard connects me to those unknown individuals and to a version of Dartmeet that has undoubtedly changed, yet likely retains its timeless charm. The rivers still meet, the bridge still stands, and the beauty of the Devon landscape endures. This little piece of my collection isn't just a picture; it's a whisper from the past, a reminder of the enduring power of place and the stories held within the simplest of objects.

It makes you wonder, what stories will our postcards tell a hundred years from now?

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Venice: Day 1, 29 October 2018

Monday, October 29th, 2018. Our arrival in the fabled city of Venice was less a gentle gondola ride and more a wade into watery wonder. Instead of the postcard-perfect canals reflecting centuries of history, we were greeted by an altogether more dramatic scene: Venice submerged.

They say acqua alta, the high water, is a part of Venetian life. But the deluge that greeted us on our first day was something else entirely. Reports trickled in of the worst flooding in over a decade, the water levels in places, particularly around the iconic St. Mark's Square, creeping alarmingly close to three feet. The romantic notion of exploring the labyrinthine alleyways quickly dissolved into the more pressing reality of navigating a city rapidly turning into a temporary lagoon.

Our initial plans for a leisurely exploration were, shall we say, dampened. The heart of Venice, the areas we had dreamt of seeing first, were simply unreachable. Instead, our initial hours were spent confined to the periphery – the areas around the airport and our hotel becoming our unexpected initial playground.

But even in these less celebrated corners, the power and strangeness of the situation were undeniable. The familiar sounds of rolling suitcases were replaced by the slosh of water, the usual bustle punctuated by the lapping tide against doorways. Reflections danced on surfaces that should have been dry, turning ordinary streets into shimmering, albeit inconvenient, waterways.

Armed with whatever photographic tool came to hand – my trusty Sony phone for quick snaps, the surprisingly capable camera on my Amazon tablet, and my reliable Nikon D330 SLR for when conditions allowed – I tried to capture the surreal beauty of this unexpected introduction to Venice. These first images aren't of grand palazzos or bustling markets. They are a testament to the resilience of a city facing a formidable force of nature, a glimpse into the everyday adapting to the extraordinary.

They are pictures of a city holding its breath, waiting for the waters to recede, but even in its submerged state, radiating a unique and unforgettable charm. This wasn't the Venice we expected, but it was certainly a Venice we will never forget. Stay tuned for more as (hopefully!) the waters subside and we can venture deeper into the heart of this incredible, if currently very wet, city.

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Taken at the Venice airport boat moorings waiting for my transfer to the city.

This was my first proper land based view of Venice, taken from the boat landing area near
St Marks Square looking across the water to the church of San Giorgio Maggiore.

Looking down from my hotel room at San Marco Palace to the flooded courtyard below.

Flooding outside Doge's Palace at the entrance to St Mark's Square. The water got deeper than
this crossing the square, reaching chest height on me before I successfully reached my hotel.

The hotel steps.

I took this shortly after take off from Manchester Airport looking out across the Peak
District. The sun had not long since risen. At a guess I think the plane would have been
somewhere between Marple Bridge and New Mills.

The Hotel Steps again, looking up towards the sky light.

Looking down towards the Alps Mountain range somewhere near the borders of Switzerland,
Liechtenstein, Austria and Italy.

The rooftops of Venice viewed from my hotel room at San Marco Palace.

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Vintage Railway Posters of the World.

Currently sorting through my collection of images that I have acquired over the years trying to find stuff to do with them and found over 200 vintage railway posters. I have taken an initial 26 from them and turned them in to a slideshow - video, which can now be viewed both here and on YouTube. The posters are mainly from the United Kingdom but there are also posters from other parts of the world.

I purchased many of my images copyright free and as far as I am aware that is the case with these. if I am misinformed I will remove them if asked by the copyright holder.

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Raphael Kirchner.. Pin Ups and Vintage Girls.

Sometimes, the most unexpected discoveries land right in your lap. Recently, I stumbled upon a fascinating collection of images, a veritable time capsule brimming with the echoes of bygone eras. I'm told these pictures are copyright free, and as they sat there, a silent testament to forgotten artistry and cultural moments, I couldn't shake the feeling that they deserved more than just gathering dust.

Imagine leafing through a stack that includes vibrant old travel posters, each a miniature invitation to a world long past. Then there are the delicate autographs, whispers of famous hands and personalities. And let's not forget the captivating pin-up girls, each a unique expression of artistic style and societal ideals. The collection even holds a glimpse into the more discreet world of Victorian erotica, offering a fascinating, albeit perhaps blush-inducing, peek into the sensibilities of the time. Rounding it all off are portraits of celebrities, frozen moments of fame and recognition.

It felt like a disservice to keep these intriguing snapshots locked away. So, I decided to bring a small portion of this treasure trove to life. My first foray into sharing this collection focuses on the captivating work of Raphael Kirchner.

For those unfamiliar, Raphael Kirchner was an incredibly prolific Austrian artist, born on May 5th, 1875. Despite a tragically short life – he passed away on August 2nd, 1917, at the young age of 42 – Kirchner left behind an astonishing legacy of over a thousand paintings and drawings. His distinctive style, often characterized by elegant lines and a certain romanticism, captured the spirit of his era.

I've carefully selected 30 images from the Raphael Kirchner part of the collection and transformed them into a short slideshow video, now available for your viewing pleasure on YouTube. It's a small window into the artistry of Kirchner and a chance to appreciate the beauty and detail of his work.

This is just the beginning of exploring this fascinating collection. I'm excited to delve deeper into the other categories – the allure of vintage travel, the stories behind the autographs, the artistry of the pin-ups, the intrigue of the Victorian era, and the faces of fame.

Stay tuned for more glimpses into this unearthed world

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Whispers of Marble and Light: A Venetian Staircase Story

Venice. Just the name conjures images of shimmering canals, echoing footsteps across ancient stones, and a timeless beauty that seems to seep into the very air. My recent sojourn in this enchanting city was filled with such moments, each a tiny brushstroke on the canvas of a truly unforgettable experience.

While I could wax lyrical about gondola rides under moonlit bridges or the vibrant hues of Burano, today I want to share a glimpse into a more intimate space: the heart of the San Marco Palace Hotel, my temporary Venetian abode.

Now, let me be clear, this isn't a hotel review. Instead, it's a quiet appreciation for a single architectural marvel within its walls – the staircase.

From the moment I first laid eyes on it, this staircase commanded attention. It wasn't just a functional means of ascending floors; it was a statement, a piece of art carved into the very fabric of the building. Like so much in Venice, it possessed an aura of history, a silent testament to generations past.

My untrained eye could only surmise its composition, but it certainly appeared to be marble. Cool and elegant, the stone seemed to absorb and reflect the soft Venetian light in a mesmerizing dance of shadows and highlights. It formed a breath taking centrepiece to the section of the hotel where my room was nestled, a focal point that drew the gaze upwards with its graceful curves and solid presence.

I found myself pausing on the landings, not just to catch my breath after the climb, but to simply admire the craftsmanship. The way the light played upon its surface, revealing subtle veins and textures, was captivating. It felt like a whisper of the city itself, echoing the grandeur and artistry found around every corner in Venice.

Words can only do so much, so I'll let the images speak for themselves. Captured with the humble lens of my Sony Xperia phone, they offer a small window into the quiet majesty of this Venetian staircase.

These snapshots are merely fragments of a larger memory, but they serve as a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places. While my stay at the San Marco Palace Hotel was indeed pleasant – the rooms were clean, and the staff were genuinely helpful and welcoming, making it a place I'd happily recommend – it's this staircase that lingers most vividly in my mind.

It's a reminder that even in the midst of a bustling city, there are moments of serene beauty waiting to be discovered, etched in stone and illuminated by the unique light of Venice.

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Soaring Above the Clouds: A Glimpse of My Journey from Manchester to Venice

The hum of the engines, the gentle sway as we taxied down the runway... there's always a thrill in the moments before take off. On October 29th, 2018, that thrill was amplified by the anticipation of reaching the enchanting canals and historic streets of Venice. I was lucky enough to capture parts of this journey from Manchester Airport all the way to Marco Polo Airport through the lens of my trusty Nikon D3300, and I'm excited to share those moments with you.

Forget those blurry, through-the-window phone snaps! These videos offer a clearer, more immersive perspective of the world unfolding beneath the wings. From the initial ascent, leaving behind the familiar patchwork of the English countryside, to the breath taking arrival over the Venetian lagoon, each clip holds a little piece of the magic of flight.

What can you expect to see?

• The Departure: Witness the bustling activity of Manchester Airport receding into the distance as we climb into the vast expanse of the sky.
• A Sea of Clouds: Marvel at the ethereal beauty of a seemingly endless white blanket stretching as far as the eye can see – a truly awe-inspiring sight.
• Changing Landscapes: Keep an eye out for the subtle (and sometimes dramatic!) shifts in the terrain below as we journey across Europe.
• The Grand Finale: Approaching Venice: Experience the unique perspective of gliding over the intricate network of islands and waterways that make Venice so utterly captivating. Seeing it unfold from above is an unforgettable experience.
• Landing at Marco Polo: Feel the gentle bump as we touch down, bringing our aerial adventure to a close and marking the beginning of my Venetian exploration.

These aren't professionally edited masterpieces, just raw, unadulterated glimpses of a personal journey. Think of them as a virtual window seat, offering a unique vantage point on a trip I'll always cherish.

The first clip shows the take off from Manchester Airport.

The following 2 pictures were taken during the flight the first somewhere over the Peak District shortly after take off and the 2nd somewhere over the Alps shortly before landing. Clicking either image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The next 2 clips were taken over the Alps and Italy, the weather changed between them even though they were only a few minutes apart.

The Alps.

Northern Italy and very cloudy below, a complete difference to the weather over the Alps.

The final clip shows the plane landing a Venice Marco Polo Airport. The surrounding area was flooded on the day I arrived Venice was suffering some of it's worst flooding in half a century.

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All the pictures video remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Beneath a Halifax Sunrise: A Stroll Across Savile Park

 The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of damp earth and the promise of a new day. Yesterday morning, under the soft glow of the nascent sun, I found myself wandering across the familiar expanse of Savile Park in Halifax. Or should I say, The Moor? Skircoat Moor? Skircoat Common? This beloved green lung of our town answers to many names, each echoing a piece of its rich tapestry.

More than just a park, Savile Park breathes history with every rustle of leaves. As I walked, the stories embedded in this land seemed to rise with the morning mist. Imagine, this very ground, now a haven for runners and dog walkers, was once the vision of the Savile Family, who wisely decreed it should forever remain open, a gift of green to the community. Their foresight has gifted us generations of open space, a place where the spirit of Halifax has played out in countless ways.

Think of the roar of the crowds at the Halifax Agricultural Show, the thud of boots during Rugby League and Football matches, the determined strides of Crossley Heath students carving paths across the moor. This land has witnessed celebrations, competitions, and the simple joy of open-air activity.

But the echoes of history run deeper still. My mind wandered back to the dark days of World War II, when this very turf was transformed into a vital "Dig for Victory" garden, feeding a nation facing hardship. It's humbling to picture the dedication of those who turned this recreational space into a source of sustenance.

And then there's the grandeur of the Great Yorkshire Show, which graced this very spot on at least four occasions, bringing the best of the region to our doorstep. It speaks volumes about the scale and importance of Savile Park in the wider Yorkshire landscape.

As I continued my walk, the landmarks that frame this historical haven came into view. To the west, the impressive facade of Crossley Heath School stands sentinel, a long-time neighbour and beneficiary of the park's open spaces. To the east, the manicured beauty of Manor Heath Park offers a contrasting, yet complementary, landscape. And nestled in the north-eastern corner, the elegant Thorp Fountain stands as a silent witness to the park's enduring presence.

These fleeting moments, captured through the lens of my trusty Nikon D3300 back on the 20th of October 2016, are more than just pretty pictures. They are glimpses into a place that has been shaped by generations, a place where the echoes of the past mingle with the present-day rhythms of life.

Savile Park, whatever name you choose to call it, is more than just grass and trees. It's a living testament to community, resilience, and the enduring power of open spaces. It's a place to walk, to breathe, to remember, and to appreciate the rich history beneath our feet, especially when bathed in the soft light of a Halifax sunrise.

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The Twin Towers of King Cross, to the right is Wainhouse Tower, and the clocktower to the left is part of the Crossley Heath School Building.

To the north east corner of Savile Park is the Thorp Fountain, the Grade II listed drinking fountain was given to the people of Halifax by Joseph Thorp and unveiled in July 1869, Thorp also donated a drinking fountain which can be found in the grounds of the nearby People's Park. The fountain which is no longer in use bears the inscription "Thank God for water - water is best" and was designed by Levi Gill a stone mason who was born in Pateley Bridge before moving to Halifax. The Fountains Grade II listed status was granted on the 23rd November 1973. The fountain can be seen below.

St Jude's Church can be seen in the background.

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The Puzzle Hall Inn - Awaiting its Next Chapter

In the heart of our community, standing silent yet full of untold stories, lies the Puzzle Hall Inn. More than just bricks and mortar, this familiar landmark has witnessed generations of laughter, camaraderie, and the clinking of tankards. For those of us who call this place home, the sight of its weathered facade evokes a sense of history, a tangible link to the past.

Opening its doors in the late 1700s, the Puzzle Hall Inn quickly became a fixture in local life. Imagine the bustling conversations that echoed within its walls, the warmth of the hearth on a cold evening, and the lively atmosphere fueled by its very own brews. Yes, for a significant period after its inception, this wasn't just a place to drink beer, it was a place where beer was born. The very air would have carried the malty aroma of fermentation, a testament to a truly local enterprise.

That era of independent brewing came to a close in 1935 when Ward's of Sheffield took the reins. While the brewery taps may have changed, the Puzzle Hall Inn continued its role as a social hub, a place where friendships were forged and local tales were shared over a pint. For decades, it stood as a reliable cornerstone of our community, a place you could always count on.

Then, in the early 2010s, a hush fell over the Puzzle Hall. The doors closed, the laughter faded, and the familiar glow from its windows was extinguished. For many, it felt like a piece of our local identity had gone quiet. The building stood as a poignant reminder of times past, a puzzle indeed, waiting for its missing pieces to be found.

Fast forward to today, and a spark of hope has ignited. A dedicated community group has stepped forward, their vision set on breathing new life into this beloved landmark. The prospect of the Puzzle Hall Inn once again echoing with conversation and cheer is a truly exciting one. It speaks volumes about the enduring spirit of our community and the deep affection we hold for our local heritage.

These glimpses into the Puzzle Hall's silent slumber were captured on a crisp autumn day, the 2nd of November 2013. Taken with a humble Samsung Galaxy, these photographs offer a snapshot in time, a visual testament to the building's stoic presence during its period of quiet contemplation. They serve as a reminder of what was, and perhaps more importantly, what could be once again.

As the community group works towards their goal, we can all look forward to the day when the Puzzle Hall Inn's doors swing open once more, ready to welcome a new chapter in its long and fascinating history. The puzzle may have been still for a while, but the pieces are being gathered, and the picture of a vibrant future is beginning to take shape. Keep an eye out, this local legend may soon be ready to share its stories once again.

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A Spire of History: The Haunting Beauty of Halifax's Square Church

Halifax, a town steeped in industrial history, holds a silent sentinel against its skyline: the Square Church Spire. A lone finger pointing towards the heavens, it's a striking reminder of a grander structure, a story etched in stone and fire.

Imagine, if you will, the bustling Square in 1857. Amidst the clatter of horse-drawn carriages and the rhythmic hum of nearby mills, a new beacon of faith rose. The Square Congregational Church, opened on July 15th, a testament to Victorian ambition and religious fervor. This magnificent edifice stood proudly beside the iconic Piece Hall, a symbol of Halifax's prosperity. It replaced the older Georgian Square Chapel, which, in a charming twist of fate, became the church's Sunday school, a passing of the torch from one generation to the next.

For over a century, the Square Church echoed with hymns, sermons, and the quiet prayers of its congregation. It was a place of community, of solace, and of spiritual guidance. But time, as it inevitably does, brought change. The church's doors closed in 1970, marking the end of an era.

Then, tragedy struck. In January 1971, a devastating fire ripped through the main building, leaving behind a charred skeleton. The once proud structure was reduced to rubble, and in 1976, the final act of demolition was carried out. All that remained was the magnificent, Grade II listed spire, soaring 235 feet into the sky.

This solitary spire, a relic of a lost grandeur, now stands as a poignant reminder of what once was. It's a striking juxtaposition against the modern architecture of the Halifax Central Library, into which it is now incorporated. Standing at its base, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, the faint strains of an organ, the murmur of prayers.

The Square Church Spire is more than just a historical landmark; it's a symbol of resilience, a testament to the enduring power of memory. It's a place where the past and present collide, where the echoes of a bygone era mingle with the everyday sounds of a bustling town.

Next time you find yourself in Halifax, take a moment to gaze upon this architectural marvel. Let its silent story resonate with you, and remember the grand church that once stood beside it, a testament to the enduring spirit of Halifax. It's a reminder that even in the face of destruction, something beautiful and enduring can remain, reaching towards the sky like a whispered prayer.

The pictures below were taken on the 27th May 2018 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media, and check out my portfolio's on Photo4Me and Clickasnap via the links below.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.