Postcard of the week (25.12.2016)
The new "Harwich and Dovercourt" Bus service, Quay Side, Harwich in 1907.
This Bus service started operation in 1907, covering a route from Harwich Quay down to Kingsway, Dovercourt, all for one old penny (12 of those old pennies to our modern 5p). Local advertising signs are carried on board and even a Nestle's Swiss Milk with "The Richest in Cream" can be seen protecting passengers from the elements and ladies modesty on the top deck. Other veiws of this bus place it outside the Angel Public House in Harwich and outside The Queens Hotel in Dovercourt.
The new "Harwich and Dovercourt" Bus service, Quay Side, Harwich in 1907.
This Bus service started operation in 1907, covering a route from Harwich Quay down to Kingsway, Dovercourt, all for one old penny (12 of those old pennies to our modern 5p). Local advertising signs are carried on board and even a Nestle's Swiss Milk with "The Richest in Cream" can be seen protecting passengers from the elements and ladies modesty on the top deck. Other veiws of this bus place it outside the Angel Public House in Harwich and outside The Queens Hotel in Dovercourt.
Postcard of the week (18.12.2016)
Harwich Fire Brigade in 1916, at Cow Lane, off Kings Quay Street, Harwich.
Members of the Harwich Fire Brigade about 1916 with David Wills, Chairman of the Fire Brigade Committee and honourable Captain of the Brigade sitting in the middle of the front row (he was a Baker in Church Street).
Harwich Fire Brigade in 1916, at Cow Lane, off Kings Quay Street, Harwich.
Members of the Harwich Fire Brigade about 1916 with David Wills, Chairman of the Fire Brigade Committee and honourable Captain of the Brigade sitting in the middle of the front row (he was a Baker in Church Street).
Postcard of the week (11.12.2016)
Opening of the old Harwich Fire station in 1912, Cow Lane, off Kings Quay Street, Harwich.
Now renamed the "1912 centre" is the former town Fire Station situated within the heart of the Harwich Conservation area, aptly named after the year in which the station was built.
When it was first opened it was equipped with horse drawn Shand Mason fire equipment, until 1925 when motorised transport replaced the horses.
The Postcode for the building is CO12 3ES and can be seen on Google maps clicking here
Opening of the old Harwich Fire station in 1912, Cow Lane, off Kings Quay Street, Harwich.
Now renamed the "1912 centre" is the former town Fire Station situated within the heart of the Harwich Conservation area, aptly named after the year in which the station was built.
When it was first opened it was equipped with horse drawn Shand Mason fire equipment, until 1925 when motorised transport replaced the horses.
The Postcode for the building is CO12 3ES and can be seen on Google maps clicking here
- Postcard of the week (04.12.2016)
- The new headquarters of the Essex and Suffolk Royal Garrison Artillery Territorial Force
- The new headquarters of the Essex and Suffolk Royal Garrison Artillery Territorial Force [and No. 1 Co.] were a unit of the Territorial Force with their HQ in Main Road, Dovercourt in 1911 It was made up of No 1 (Harwich and Felixstowe) Garrison Company, No 2 (Stratford) Garrison Company, No 3 (Southend-on-Sea and Leigh-on-Sea) Garrison Company and No 4 (Ipswich) Garrison Company. The HQ comprised of an adjutant’s office, armoury, orderly and recreation rooms, a drill hall 100 by 50 feet, miniature rifle range and quarters for the instructor. The Harwich Troop of a squadron, of Essex Yeomanry also had an armoury and drill here in 1914. The building is now used as the Park Pavilion Social, CO12 3NS, click here for Google Street view.
- The headquarters of the Essex and Suffolk R.G.A. housed the volunteers whom manned the guns at the Beacon Hill Fort with the 1st Essex Artillery Volunteers formed at Harwich on 18th February 1860 as a response to a French invasion threat. In 1899 the two batteries located at Harwich were moved to create a new Corps, designated as the 1st Suffolk and Harwich Artillery Volunteers. In 1908 on the formation of the Territorial Force the 1st Essex became the 2nd East Anglian Brigade Royal Field Artillery (TF). This brigade comprised the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Batteries. Five batteries were combined with the 1st Suffolk and Harwich Artillery Volunteers to form the Essex and Suffolk Royal Garrison Artillery (TF). They became part of the Territorial Force in 1908 and served during the First and Second World Wars until amalgamated in 1956.
- The Royal Garrison Artillery: developed from fortress-based artillery located on British coasts. From 1914 when the army possessed very little heavy artillery it grew into a very large component of the British forces. It was armed with heavy, large calibre guns and howitzers that were positioned some way behind the front line and had immense destructive power.
Postcard of the week (27.11.2016)
Bramble Island, Hamford Waters “Exchem” Factory Workers in 1917 (W.W.1)
Bramble Island, Hamford Waters “Exchem” Factory Workers in 1917 (W.W.1)
- Due to the war effort it was mainly women who were employed at the factory, with most men already drafted into the military. The “Explosives and Chemical Products Ltd” (Exchem) opened the factory after the sea walls were destroyed by floods in 1897 and later in 1905. The remoteness of the factory was ideal for such production, although further flooding occurred in 1928, 1949 and obviously again in 1953 (when a night watchman Henry Archibald drowned).
When the first French factory was built It was on a smaller scale, with cases of explosives ordered three or four at a time and these were loaded on to a cart and drawn by horse to Thorpe Le Soken station, six miles away and sent off by train. Later a dock was constructed and barges were used. The First World War caused the factory to step up production considerably, so it made a great contribution to the war effort. Once again during the Second World War its goods were again in great demand.
There have been a number of accidental explosions at the factory, one in 1942 when three employees died and three of the workers were awarded the Edward Medal later converted to the George Cross. In the east coast floods of 1953, three employees received awards for their bravery in disposing of explosives left in a very dangerous condition by the rising tides. For their courage they received the British Empire Medal.
Postcard of the week (20.11.2016)
The Gables Hotel, Marine Parade, Dovercourt, Essex in 1966.
A privately produced card, sent to a patron of the hotel by staff back in 1966 (yes it really was over 50 years ago !).
The Gables Hotel was located at the junction of Cliff Road and Marine Parade, close to the surviving Cliff Hotel. Other similar cards as well as a photo of the demolition of the hotel in 1972, give a clear indication of the transformation of the sea front. The hotel has been replaced by residential accommodation, bearing the same name.
Nice to see the postbox and fire hydrant still intact, even if the former looks on the slant !
The Postcode for the location is CO12 3RF click here for Google Earth imagery.
The Gables Hotel, Marine Parade, Dovercourt, Essex in 1966.
A privately produced card, sent to a patron of the hotel by staff back in 1966 (yes it really was over 50 years ago !).
The Gables Hotel was located at the junction of Cliff Road and Marine Parade, close to the surviving Cliff Hotel. Other similar cards as well as a photo of the demolition of the hotel in 1972, give a clear indication of the transformation of the sea front. The hotel has been replaced by residential accommodation, bearing the same name.
Nice to see the postbox and fire hydrant still intact, even if the former looks on the slant !
The Postcode for the location is CO12 3RF click here for Google Earth imagery.
Postcard of the week (13.11.2016)
The Great Eastern Railway Military (V.A.D) Hospital, Harwich Quay 1915.
At the start of World War One V.A.D ( Voluntary Aid Detachment) Hospitals sprung up throughout Essex to provide support for the Territorial Army training and for injuries to troops following fighting on the Western Front (Belgium and France). The Great Eastern Hotel, was one of the many buildings in the Harwich area requisitioned by the Government in 1915, it was described as a Military Hospital staffed by Essex VAD, with Mr. Etherden as the Commandant. The Hospital provided beds for 110 other ranks, particularly between May - October 1915.
We will remember them.
The Great Eastern Railway Military (V.A.D) Hospital, Harwich Quay 1915.
At the start of World War One V.A.D ( Voluntary Aid Detachment) Hospitals sprung up throughout Essex to provide support for the Territorial Army training and for injuries to troops following fighting on the Western Front (Belgium and France). The Great Eastern Hotel, was one of the many buildings in the Harwich area requisitioned by the Government in 1915, it was described as a Military Hospital staffed by Essex VAD, with Mr. Etherden as the Commandant. The Hospital provided beds for 110 other ranks, particularly between May - October 1915.
We will remember them.
Postcard of the week (06.11.2016)
The Victoria Hotel "Regulars" day-trip out in a beautiful Charabanc from around 1922.
Day trips were very popular in the 1920's with the arrival or relatively cheap motorised vehicles.
This Charabanc parked in East St, Dovercourt was a large bus, used for sightseeing tours, especially one with open sides and no centre aisle. We can see it's clearly a "man's world" from this postcard !! The Victoria Hotel was sadly demolished after a fire in 2005.
Postcode for the nearest location at Parkeston Road end is CO12 3AS click here for Google Earth imagery.
The Victoria Hotel "Regulars" day-trip out in a beautiful Charabanc from around 1922.
Day trips were very popular in the 1920's with the arrival or relatively cheap motorised vehicles.
This Charabanc parked in East St, Dovercourt was a large bus, used for sightseeing tours, especially one with open sides and no centre aisle. We can see it's clearly a "man's world" from this postcard !! The Victoria Hotel was sadly demolished after a fire in 2005.
Postcode for the nearest location at Parkeston Road end is CO12 3AS click here for Google Earth imagery.
Postcard of the week (30.10.2016)
Number 6, The High Street, Dovercourt in 1934, part of "The Excel Series".
The Excel Series consisted of 50 high quality real photographs of the Harwich and Dovercourt area and were produced between 1934 and 1939 (just prior to World War Two). In this view taken looking North East towards Harwich, we have a thriving town centre, with Holly Close to our left and J.A Saunders to our right. A later card (number 17 from the same series) shows the same Woolworth's store.
The Postcode for the location is CO12 3PA click here for Google Earth imagery.
Number 6, The High Street, Dovercourt in 1934, part of "The Excel Series".
The Excel Series consisted of 50 high quality real photographs of the Harwich and Dovercourt area and were produced between 1934 and 1939 (just prior to World War Two). In this view taken looking North East towards Harwich, we have a thriving town centre, with Holly Close to our left and J.A Saunders to our right. A later card (number 17 from the same series) shows the same Woolworth's store.
The Postcode for the location is CO12 3PA click here for Google Earth imagery.
Postcard of the week (23.10.2016)
The original Phoenix Hotel, Lower Marine Parade, Dovercourt Bay in 1904.
Originally built in 1865, this photograph shows the first Phoenix Hotel with staff in 1904, sadly later on in 1914 the Hotel was destroyed by fire, with a second replacement Phoenix Hotel, including the popular nightclub "Reflections" built, this also closed in 2003, more recently it has been replaced by flats. Also included here, is the postcard showing the aftermath of the fire.
The original Phoenix Hotel, Lower Marine Parade, Dovercourt Bay in 1904.
Originally built in 1865, this photograph shows the first Phoenix Hotel with staff in 1904, sadly later on in 1914 the Hotel was destroyed by fire, with a second replacement Phoenix Hotel, including the popular nightclub "Reflections" built, this also closed in 2003, more recently it has been replaced by flats. Also included here, is the postcard showing the aftermath of the fire.
Postcard of the week (16.10.2016)
The Water Tower, Fronk's Road, Dovercourt, Harwich, Essex CO12 3RN
This Grade II listed building dates back to 1903 and is still used as a water tower in Dovercourt. It is an important landmark in the town it has more recently been used for telecommunications masts. It also gained a listed building status in March 1994.
The painted steel tower with tank of painted corrugated metal sheeting, with a circular water tank with
cone-shaped roof and access gallery with handrail. Openwork octagonal tower of painted steelworks with diagonal housing and has access ladders.
An elegant functional building and local landmark.
The Water Tower, Fronk's Road, Dovercourt, Harwich, Essex CO12 3RN
This Grade II listed building dates back to 1903 and is still used as a water tower in Dovercourt. It is an important landmark in the town it has more recently been used for telecommunications masts. It also gained a listed building status in March 1994.
The painted steel tower with tank of painted corrugated metal sheeting, with a circular water tank with
cone-shaped roof and access gallery with handrail. Openwork octagonal tower of painted steelworks with diagonal housing and has access ladders.
An elegant functional building and local landmark.
Postcard of the week (09.10.2016)
The last known photograph of Captain Precious and Crew of the ill-fated S.S. Berlin in 1907.
The SS "Berlin" ferry was built in 1894 by Earles Shipbuilding and Engineering Company of Hull for the Great Eastern Railway. The "SS Berlin" operated from Harwich to the Hook of Holland. The ship was wrecked off the Hook of Holland (Hoek van Holland) on 21st February 1907. Over a hundred people died and around 48 of the crew lived in Harwich, including Captain Precious whose memorial is at All Saints Church, Dovercourt. The aftermath of the disaster led to 37 widows and 208 children of the crew without fathers in the Harwich area.
Click here for more information
The last known photograph of Captain Precious and Crew of the ill-fated S.S. Berlin in 1907.
The SS "Berlin" ferry was built in 1894 by Earles Shipbuilding and Engineering Company of Hull for the Great Eastern Railway. The "SS Berlin" operated from Harwich to the Hook of Holland. The ship was wrecked off the Hook of Holland (Hoek van Holland) on 21st February 1907. Over a hundred people died and around 48 of the crew lived in Harwich, including Captain Precious whose memorial is at All Saints Church, Dovercourt. The aftermath of the disaster led to 37 widows and 208 children of the crew without fathers in the Harwich area.
Click here for more information
Postcard of the week (02.10.2016)
76590 The Cliffs, Dovercourt by Bell's Photography in 1913.
A lovely view taken on the seafront looking North East towards the War Department, close to the Gables, Dovercourt, with the "Peters Swiss Chocolate Bars" machine intact and untouched my modern day vandalism and theft, although I am not sure how the bars didn't melt in the warm sunlight ?
This postcard was part of the Bell's Photography series, from Leigh-on-sea , who produced cards for 45 years from around 1905 though to 1950.
76590 The Cliffs, Dovercourt by Bell's Photography in 1913.
A lovely view taken on the seafront looking North East towards the War Department, close to the Gables, Dovercourt, with the "Peters Swiss Chocolate Bars" machine intact and untouched my modern day vandalism and theft, although I am not sure how the bars didn't melt in the warm sunlight ?
This postcard was part of the Bell's Photography series, from Leigh-on-sea , who produced cards for 45 years from around 1905 though to 1950.
Postcard of the week (25.09.2016)
The "Castle Inn", Quoits Team, Ramsey, Essex in 1905.
Two postcards of what appears to be a very "male dominated" environment !
The "Castle Inn", The Street, Ramsey is a pub located within the Conservation Area - designated in 1981.
This 17th century public house was once a coaching Inn and thankfully still trading, offering camping facilities, alongside an excellent reputation for both food and fine ales, the pub also has a web site seen below.
http://www.castleinnramsey.co.uk
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 5HH click here for Google Earth imagery.
The "Castle Inn", Quoits Team, Ramsey, Essex in 1905.
Two postcards of what appears to be a very "male dominated" environment !
The "Castle Inn", The Street, Ramsey is a pub located within the Conservation Area - designated in 1981.
This 17th century public house was once a coaching Inn and thankfully still trading, offering camping facilities, alongside an excellent reputation for both food and fine ales, the pub also has a web site seen below.
http://www.castleinnramsey.co.uk
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 5HH click here for Google Earth imagery.
Postcard of the week (18.09.2016)
No.19. Dovercourt. High Street (1913)
This classic scene is dominated by the Capital and Counties Bank, built in 1902 by Messrs Bacon, Cobbold & Co, beyond that lies the "Eastern Drug Company" cash chemists and "International Tea Stores". Transport is still dominated by the "horse and cart" as the standard mode of transport, while people nonchalantly cross the road, care-free of the absent passing motorist. The original photograph was taken at the junction of Kingsway & the High St looking East towards Harwich. Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3LL click here for Google Earth imagery.
No.19. Dovercourt. High Street (1913)
This classic scene is dominated by the Capital and Counties Bank, built in 1902 by Messrs Bacon, Cobbold & Co, beyond that lies the "Eastern Drug Company" cash chemists and "International Tea Stores". Transport is still dominated by the "horse and cart" as the standard mode of transport, while people nonchalantly cross the road, care-free of the absent passing motorist. The original photograph was taken at the junction of Kingsway & the High St looking East towards Harwich. Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3LL click here for Google Earth imagery.
Postcard of the week (11.09.2016)
139697 The Promenade & Cliffs, Dovercourt Bay, Bell's Photography (1933).
This photo was taken shortly after the opening of the Cliff Pavilion in 1931, the Elco Hotel and Alexandra Hotel can be seen to the left, while lines of coloured bulbs can can be seen strung across the cliffs that would have been illuminated the sea front at night. This postcard was part of the Bell's Photography series, from Leigh-on-sea , who produced cards for 45 years from around 1905 though to 1950.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3LL click here for Google Earth imagery.
139697 The Promenade & Cliffs, Dovercourt Bay, Bell's Photography (1933).
This photo was taken shortly after the opening of the Cliff Pavilion in 1931, the Elco Hotel and Alexandra Hotel can be seen to the left, while lines of coloured bulbs can can be seen strung across the cliffs that would have been illuminated the sea front at night. This postcard was part of the Bell's Photography series, from Leigh-on-sea , who produced cards for 45 years from around 1905 though to 1950.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3LL click here for Google Earth imagery.
Postcard of the week (04.09.2016)
"F. Bilby" The Family Butchers, 5 High Street, Manningtree (1907) Publisher F. Newell.
Built in the 1840’s this Grade II listed building is within the conservation area of the medieval town of Manningtree,
The premises currently "Chilvers" Fish & Chips located here in Google Street View by clicking here.
The Food Standards agency would have had a field day with this butchers, no refrigeration, mixed hanging meats and I imagine flies and maggots galore exposed to the open air. This card was part of the "Registered Series" by F.Newell, Manningtree & Alresford, Hants. published around 1905 - 1910.
"F. Bilby" The Family Butchers, 5 High Street, Manningtree (1907) Publisher F. Newell.
Built in the 1840’s this Grade II listed building is within the conservation area of the medieval town of Manningtree,
The premises currently "Chilvers" Fish & Chips located here in Google Street View by clicking here.
The Food Standards agency would have had a field day with this butchers, no refrigeration, mixed hanging meats and I imagine flies and maggots galore exposed to the open air. This card was part of the "Registered Series" by F.Newell, Manningtree & Alresford, Hants. published around 1905 - 1910.
Postcard of the week (28.08.2016)
7618 The Cliffs Dovercourt (1913) real photograph.
On the lower promenade, opposite Cliff Road, we see a classic Dovercourt scene, taken during the "golden period" of postcards, one year prior to World War One in 1914. Bonnets and hats were the height of fashion, but also acted as practical protection against the Sun's harmful ultra violet rays. Long dresses and sombre "Sunday best", were the call of the day, even a Burkini would probably have fitted in quite well I think. This particular view was used by more than one publisher, as the second "printed" card from "Wyndham" shows.
7618 The Cliffs Dovercourt (1913) real photograph.
On the lower promenade, opposite Cliff Road, we see a classic Dovercourt scene, taken during the "golden period" of postcards, one year prior to World War One in 1914. Bonnets and hats were the height of fashion, but also acted as practical protection against the Sun's harmful ultra violet rays. Long dresses and sombre "Sunday best", were the call of the day, even a Burkini would probably have fitted in quite well I think. This particular view was used by more than one publisher, as the second "printed" card from "Wyndham" shows.
Postcard of the week (21.08.2016)
2642 Pleasure Beach, Dovercourt around 1930 ("Nene" Series, by H. Coates of Wisbech)
Close to the beach opposite the skating rink, once stood a small pleasure fairground, with "roundabouts" and "dodgems" etc., it extended down towards the boating lakes. On one of the rides is an early Mickey Mouse illustration taken from Walt Disney’s “Wild Waves” produced in 1929, note the much thinner mouse than later illustrations.
These photographic cards were produced by Herbert George Coates (b:1883 d:1978) of Market Place, Wisbech who produced many high quality local cards mainly between 1930 and 1945.
2642 Pleasure Beach, Dovercourt around 1930 ("Nene" Series, by H. Coates of Wisbech)
Close to the beach opposite the skating rink, once stood a small pleasure fairground, with "roundabouts" and "dodgems" etc., it extended down towards the boating lakes. On one of the rides is an early Mickey Mouse illustration taken from Walt Disney’s “Wild Waves” produced in 1929, note the much thinner mouse than later illustrations.
These photographic cards were produced by Herbert George Coates (b:1883 d:1978) of Market Place, Wisbech who produced many high quality local cards mainly between 1930 and 1945.
Postcard of the week (14.08.2016)
A Summer Fete at Michaelstowe Hall, Ramsey, Essex in July 1913 (Wallis No 8)
In the height of the last summer before the outbreak of World War One in 1914, a fun day was held at Michaelstowe Hall. This particular card shows the "Boys Brigade" and the immaculately dressed ladies with summer hats (no suntan lotion in these days). These real photographic cards were produced by "Wallis Studios" and "Steggles Studios" both professional photographers based in Dovercourt,suggesting this was quite an event.
A Summer Fete at Michaelstowe Hall, Ramsey, Essex in July 1913 (Wallis No 8)
In the height of the last summer before the outbreak of World War One in 1914, a fun day was held at Michaelstowe Hall. This particular card shows the "Boys Brigade" and the immaculately dressed ladies with summer hats (no suntan lotion in these days). These real photographic cards were produced by "Wallis Studios" and "Steggles Studios" both professional photographers based in Dovercourt,suggesting this was quite an event.
- Postcard of the week (07.08.2016)
Parkeston Quay, Bell's 113912(1927) - A relatively quiet waterfront down at Parkeston Quay in the late 1920's.
The railway lines and cranes that enabled loading and unloading of coal and cargo onto local shipping, appear dormant. However the presence of railway carriages suggests otherwise.
The other cards show the cranes and quayside at Parkeston.
This card is part of the Bell's series (Real photographic postcards)
- Postcard of the week (31.07.2016)
Harwich Pier Front (1913)
A very busy waterfront by the H'penny pier, opposite the former Great Eastern Hotel.
Note the railway lines and cranes that allowed loading & unloading of coal and cargo onto local shipping.
The second card shows the view, taken from the opposite direction.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3HH click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (24.07.2016)
3760 Dovercourt Bay from the Sea (A.R.Quinton) J Salmon Series (1945).
Watercolour artist Alfred Robert Quinton (1853–1934) was 57 years of age when postcard publisher Joseph Salmon spotted some of his paintings in a London art gallery. Salmon persuaded Alfred to let him print a 1912 calendar featuring Quintons English village views. The calendar was a success and, over the next 22 years, Quinton went on to produce more than 2000 watercolours featuring the towns, villages and resorts of England and Wales which Salmon published as postcards. Alfred Robert Quinton is ranked the most popular British artist in this country's postcard hobby.
- Postcard of the week (17.07.2016)
34625 Chalets & Lower Promenade, Dovercourt Bay (M) W.A.Wells - These beach chalets were built in the 1930's and finally demolished in the late 1960's to make way for the new promenade
- The publisher of the postcard was W.A. Wells, Stationer & Bookseller, 73 High Street, Dovercourt Bay.
- Postcard of the week (10.07.2016)
No 6, Fire at Hill House Farm, Ramsey, Essex (1915) Photo by Wallis Oakley Studio
Hill House Farm, The High Street, Ramsey was the home of Katherine Hempson (1858 - 1945) Farmer and Painter. The farm was later taken over by a Mr Hewitt.
This photo shows the aftermath of a serious fire, with significant damage to the property, due to the lack of fire engines or fire fighting equipment to hand. However the damage was limited by the prompt action of the men and a wide selection of buckets and pans !!
The absence of many younger men in this photo, would have been due to volunteers and "call up" papers to the front, during World War One (1914 - 1918). - The publisher of the postcard was "Wallis", one of the best local social history photographers in the area.
- Postcard of the week (03.07.2016)
- No.11. Dovercourt. View From W. (circa 1909)
- This view taken at the junction at the bottom of Beach Road and Lower Marine Parade was posted in 1920.
- Note the young man has his ‘persuader’ – a stick to encourage a "lazy" goats to move a little faster, or even to stop them eating your clothes ! The owner of the Goat and Donkey carts was Jim Osborne, who also used to run a taxi service between Dovercourt Station and the beach.
- Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3SS Click here for Google street view imagery.
- Postcard of the week (26.06.2016)
The Front, Dovercourt (1909) A & G Taylor (1860’s-1918) London, England - Photographers Andrew and George Taylor set up the Royal Studio in the 1860’s, and as they became a major producer of cartes de visite they began opening up branches in many other towns and cities including some in the United States. They were publishing postcards by 1901 under the names of four different series though there are some unmarked cards. The Reality Series consisted of greetings, children, actresses, and military themes produced as real photo postcards. The Carbontone Series were black & white printed views and greetings. The Orthochrome Series were also of views and greetings but printed in tinted halftone. They also published a Comic Series. After 1914 they moved their primary studio to Hastings. Their cards were printed in both Saxony and Great Britain.
- Postcard of the week (19.06.2016)
Ramsey Hill, Nr Dovercourt (1913) Unknown Publisher
A tranquil scene just prior to the outbreak of World War One (1914), is a poignant reminder of less turbulent times, the cart and horses passing the "Old Forge" and Village Blacksmith, at the bottom of the hill (now known as Church Hill, near Whinney Wood, Ramsey) en route from Dovercourt.
Much of this land was sold off in 1920 along with Michaelstow Hall Estate of 2,250 acres of land. - For the nearest point today on Google Maps click here.
- Postcard of the week (12.06.2016)
- The Shelter, Cliffe Park, Dovercourt, Essex. c.1911.
- This shelter sat upon the mound behind Orwell Terrace and as a child I always wondered why the mound was there, perhaps a secret bunker, storm tunnel or more likely just an elevated terrace to give a better view, from which to watch the shipping going in and out of Harwich.
- A military map of 1811 shows that the Cliff Park area of Dovercourt was originally a military exercising ground, but within these grounds around 1845, John Bagshaw built himself a mansion called Cliff House, which had extensive grounds and gardens. Cliff House was eventually demolished in 1909
- The park itself was officially opened on June 2nd 1911 to coincide with the coronation of King George V. It included a bandstand (with deckchairs to hire), lawns, flower beds and weekly firework displays.
Postcard of the week (05.06.2016)
412G Regatter at Dovercourt in year 1912.
412G Regatter at Dovercourt in year 1912.
- Dovercourt from the sea, with an amazing number of people filling the paths and cliffs in front of the Cliff Hotel along Marine Drive (later Parade).
- These regattas were organised by the Council in conjunction with the Royal Harwich Yacht Club going as far back as 1828. Large numbers of people as well as many famous Yachts, were attracted to this annual event.The summer of 1912 was also the first year the Council hired a band to play at such Regatta's.
- Harwich and Dovercourt with it's linear geography, surrounded on three sides by the sea, was perfect for such racing.
Postcard of the week (29.05.2016)
The Crew of HMS Blanche at Michaelstow Hall, near Ramsey.
The Crew of HMS Blanche at Michaelstow Hall, near Ramsey.
- To celebrate 100 years of the Battle of Jutland, a local connection to that historic event.
- HMS Blanche was a Blonde Class Light scout cruiser and was present at Jutland (although she didn't fight). She was converted to a mine-layer in 1917. Commissioned in 1909 until she was sold for scrap in 1921.
- The crew can be seen here posing at Michaelstow Hall, near Ramsey, armed with a variety of weapons (how things have changed, as members of the Royal Navy are not even allowed to wear their uniform in public these days) and taking the chance for rest and relaxation and the odd cigarette !
- I like the fact the sailor dropped the card while walking and apologised to the recipient.
- Postcard of the week (22.05.2016)
- An interesting view looking West along Fronks Road, Dovercourt taken around 1923.
- The Dutch House and Minesweepers War Memorial, dominate this scene, but nice to see the two horse & carts / travellers caravans, coming towards the camera.
- Note the absence of any motorised vehicles but telephone lines are now in place, with the introduction of phone lines into the more affluent homes.
- The original photograph was taken near the junction of Marine Parade, looking West towards the Mine Sweepers Memorial ( which was unveiled on the 20th December 1919 and is dedicated to officers and men of the Royal Naval Reserve, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, Auxiliary Reserve and Minesweepers.).
- Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3RJ click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (15.05.2016)
- Parkeston Post Office, Hamilton Street, Parkeston, Circa 1923.
- The road was built in the 1880’s, with housing in the southern end and a School, Church and Village Hall in the upper Northern end (note the gates at the top of the road, marking the dividing line have now been removed).
- It's nice to see the Chivers Jellies and Rowntree's Cocoa in the shop window.
- Lord Claude Hamilton (1843-1925), a former chairman of G.E.R., also gave his name [Hamilton Park] to the extensive playing fields between the village and the station/quay area.
- Google Link & Postcode: CO12 4PQ
Postcard of the week (08.05.2016)
- The "Cherry Tree Mob" Little Oakley, on a Charabanc day trip to Clacton in July 1924.
- A shiny charabanc, with a gleaming bell ready for the off to Clacton in July 1924, with regulars from Ye Olde Cherry Tree, Little Oakley. A Charabanc is a large bus, used on sightseeing tours, especially one with open sides and no centre aisle. Day trips were very popular in the 1920's with the arrival or relatively cheap motorised vehicles. It's clearly a "man's world" from this postcard !!
- Postcode for the nearest location at Parkeston Road end is CO12 5JH click here for Google Earth imagery.
Postcard of the week (01.05.2016)
"Bathing Machines", Dovercourt Beach 1904
"Bathing Machines", Dovercourt Beach 1904
- The start of the transition from "Bathing Machines" owned by the Phoenix Hotel over to "Bathing Huts", can be seen here, with both being present.
- Most of the "Bathing machines" had disappeared in England by 1914, with Dovercourt being one of the last places continuing to use them.
Postcard of the week (24.04.2016)
"Ancient Trees", Dovercourt Beach (near the park) in 1971, PJF cards
These "Ancient Trees" near Dovercourt Park Beach, were captured by Patrick Fisher local teacher and artist in 1971. His nephew Peter Hall, also a great artist has painted many local scenes as well.
They mark the loss of the original coastline from erosion and have been mentioned in early 17th Century texts such as "The History and Antiquities of Harwich and Dovercourt" By Silas Taylor, Samuel Dale 1730.
For more information see:- http://www.harwich.net/pjf.htm
"Ancient Trees", Dovercourt Beach (near the park) in 1971, PJF cards
These "Ancient Trees" near Dovercourt Park Beach, were captured by Patrick Fisher local teacher and artist in 1971. His nephew Peter Hall, also a great artist has painted many local scenes as well.
They mark the loss of the original coastline from erosion and have been mentioned in early 17th Century texts such as "The History and Antiquities of Harwich and Dovercourt" By Silas Taylor, Samuel Dale 1730.
For more information see:- http://www.harwich.net/pjf.htm
Postcard of the week (17.04.2016)
- The Hangings, Dovercourt in 1921, A classic "Wallis" Postcard.
The "Hangings" follows the route of an old disused railway line, running between Parkeston Road (near Lidl's) and Dovercourt Station. Originally this was part of the Eastern Counties Railway route to Wrabness, which opened 1854 and closed in 1882. The two bridges in Parkeston Road date from around 1870. - The name of the route, is thought to been derived from the overhanging trees, which shelter the path and make for a pleasant walk, on a fine day.
The Hangings has always attracted visitors some unwelcome, with tree swings, dens, bottle diggers, fly-tippers and of course the odd unlicensed vehicle.
This postcard is yet another "real photograph" from the famous Wallis publishers, who produced cards from around 1910 to the late 1930's.
Postcode for the nearest location at Parkeston Road end is CO12 4HE click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (10.04.2016)
Harwich & Dovercourt Summer Carnival in the 1930's, A classic "Wallis" Postcard.
These summer carnivals, much like the Autumn Guy carnivals were extremely popular in the 1930's.
This photo was taken from the Co-operative clock tower, at the junction of Kingsway and Dovercourt High Street, looking East.
The town had these summer carnival for many years, where the big heads would often make an appearance and also appear at other carnivals around East Anglia area.
This postcard is yet another "real photograph" from the famous Wallis publishers, who produced cards from around 1910 to the late 1930's.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3LL click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (10.04.2016)
No 10 : Victoria Street, Harwich ( Celebrating the 1911 Ascension of King George V)
Bunting and flags straddle the houses and windows of Victoria Street in 1911, mourning the loss of King Edward VII, but also bringing in the new reign of King George V, the current Queen Elizabeth II's Grandfather, who reigned from 1911 though to 1935. - The photo was taken from the junction with the Main Rd, near the King's Arms public house.
This postcard looks to be another "Wallis" card, who produced cards from around 1910 - 1930.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3AR click here for Google Earth imagery.
Postcard of the week (27.03.2016)
#79326 Birds-eye View of West Street, looking North over Harwich Harbour in 1912.
The high density housing, reflects the medieval street pattern , with the north - south running streets.
The "Spread Eagle Public House", is situated in the bottom right hand corner of the card.
The "Singer Sewing Machine shop" is now "Ferry Motors", while the Town Hall dominates the Harbourside looking North towards Shotley.
This postcard was part of the Bell's Photography series , who produced cards for 45 years from 1905 - 1950.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3DA click here for Google Earth imagery.
#79326 Birds-eye View of West Street, looking North over Harwich Harbour in 1912.
The high density housing, reflects the medieval street pattern , with the north - south running streets.
The "Spread Eagle Public House", is situated in the bottom right hand corner of the card.
The "Singer Sewing Machine shop" is now "Ferry Motors", while the Town Hall dominates the Harbourside looking North towards Shotley.
This postcard was part of the Bell's Photography series , who produced cards for 45 years from 1905 - 1950.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3DA click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (20.03.2016)
The Newly opened County High School in 1910, Main Road, Harwich, Essex.
Built in 1885 between the Main Road and the River Stour in the style of an impressive late 17th-century Italian-style building, this school was originally the private residence of John Robson Pattrick. The main feature of this imposing building is the attractive tower at its north-east corner, although It has a wealth of ornamental ceiling cornices, beautiful architraves and is crowned by an impressive balustrade.
On the 27th April 1910, it was converted into use as a preparatory school known as the "The County High School" (or more locally as "The Tower School") it had six classrooms and remained in use until 1971.
During the First World War it was requisitioned for military use and more recently became a "Grade Two" listed building with the current usage as "The Tower Hotel".
http://www.tower-hotel-harwich.co.uk
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3PJ click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (13.03.2016)
The Salvation Army, Naval & Military Home
27 Church Street, Harwich between Currents Lane and the Quayside.
Built before 1917, possibly opened for business on Friday May 15th 1914
It was closed in the late 1950's and later demolished and replaced by Mayflower House.
Its purpose was to serve the many soldiers and sailors who passed through Harwich via the Transit Camp in Dovercourt. When the transit camp closed, it was converted into flats.
Special thanks to Keith Rowland and family for additional information.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3BE click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (06.03.2016)
The Drive, Dovercourt (1938) Excel Series No 19.
A tranquil scene from the 1930's looking towards the boating lake, with a solitary vehicle on the road.
At this time there, were very few houses built in "The Drive" and these were only at the top of the road.
The Car parks were used extensively and charged a massive daily rate of 6d (2.5p) !! - Note the absence of paths and the well dressed Ladies choosing to simply use the quiet roads instead.
- Both camping and parking was allowed, seen here in the second view, taken from the boating lake.
This is part of the "Real Photograph" Excel Series used around 1934 - 1951.
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3SU click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (28.02.2016)
76589 High Street, Dovercourt (1913) Bell's Photo Company
The scene is dominated by the Capital and Counties Bank, built in 1902 by Messrs Bacon, Cobbold & Co. - Beyond the bank we have the "Eastern Drug Company" cash chemists and "International Tea Stores".
Transport is dominated by the "horse and cart" as the standard mode of transport, while children standing nonchalantly in the road without a care for the absent passing motorist.
The original photograph was taken at the junction of Kingsway & the High St looking East towards Harwich.
This is another classic Bell's photography (Leigh-on-sea)
Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3LL click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (21.02.2016)
- Harwich Harbour, Steam Lifeboat "The City Of Glasgow"
- The twin Funnelled "City of Glasgow" served Harwich Harbour from 9th May 1901 - 1917.
- She was 56ft and 6in (17.22m) in length with a 180hp engine and even had a set of sails, to be the fastest steam lifeboat on the water at a rate of 9.6 kph.
- She was launched 99 times and credited for saving 87 lives during her service at Harwich, also remembered as the the last Steam Lifeboat to be built by the R.N.L.I.
- In December 1917 she was sold to the Admiralty to help in the war effort as a patrol boat and renamed "Patrick" she was last seen sailing down the river Nile in Africa.
- Note the the "working" 17th Century Tread Wheel Crane can be seen at the left of the card.
- Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3HH click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (14.02.2016)
- Gray's 'Temperance' Retreat in 1925 (Wallis Real Photographic card).
- John Riggs who formed the idea of a "Retreat" for the supply of non-alcoholic refreshments built this timber construction in 1899, opposite the Lighthouses, to cater for increasing visitors to Dovercourt.
- The Retreat was used by schools, scouts, work outings and even the Military during both world wars.
- Around 1894 it was sold to W.F. and H.Gray, who lived and raised their families there until 1906 when W.F. Gray moved from Dovercourt and took over another retreat at Theydon Bois, Essex.
- Despite the move, the Grays retained an interest in the Dovercourt business which as a limited liability company continued trading until 1959. An entry in the Herts and Essex Trades Directory for 1958-9 gives the information that as a restaurant and cafe at the Lower Marine Parade the firm was still operating. Shortly afterwards it went into liquidation and the site was purchased by the local Council and demolition followed.
- Former Location: Lower Marine Parade, Dovercourt, Essex CO12 3SS Click here for Google street view.
- Postcard of the week (07.02.2016)
- Foulton Hall Farmhouse and Dairy, Little Oakley (1921)
- Foulton Hall Farmhouse, is a Grade II Listed Building, built in the 16th Century of Timber constriction.
- The Domesday Book records two parcels of land in the area, "Michaelstou" and "Ramefeia".
These were later divided into seven manors: those of Roydon Hall, Ramsey Hall, Michaelstowe, East New Hall, Strondland, Le Rey (Ray Island), and Foulton. Margaret Thatcher has spent time at the Farm House in the 1950's and 1970's, Now part of the William Cullen Farms Limited. Location: Harwich Road, Little Oakley, Essex CO12 5JA Click here for Google street view
Postcard of the week (31.01.2016)
- 139696 Dovercourt Bay (1934) Bell's Photography
- The 1930's marked a transition from "children only" bathing to "family" bathing, however "Sunday Best" was still order of the day while on the promenade, but a more liberal attitude towards dress sense was developing.
- The "Bathing machines" had disappeared, replaced by "changing rooms " on the promenade.
- The Amusements, Pheonix Hotel and the newly opened Cliff Pavilion can be seen in the background.
- This postcard was part of the Bells's Photography series , who produced cards for 45 years from 1905 - 1950.
- Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3JY, Click Here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (24.01.2016)
- Kindertransport "Arriving in Harwich from Vienna" 12th December 1938
- A Deutsches Reich Reisepass (Kindertransport passport,) naming Anna Heichler and dated 1938, together with a photograph showing Anna Heichler with hand written annotation verso "Arriving in Harwich from Vienna" and dated Monday 12th December 1938.
- The Kindertransport (Children's transport) was an organised rescue effort that took place during the nine months prior to the outbreak of WW II. The first Kindertransport arrived at Harwich, England on December 2, 1938, bringing 196 children from a Berlin Jewish orphanage burned by the Nazis during the night of November 9. Most of the transports left by train from Vienna, Berlin, Prague and other major cities (children from small towns travelled to meet the transports), crossed the Dutch and Belgian borders, and went on by ship to England. Hundreds of children remained in Belgium and Holland. The transports ended with the outbreak of war in September 1939.
- One very last transport left on the freighter Bodegraven from Ymuiden on May 14, 1940 – the day Rotterdam was bombed, one day before Holland surrendered – raked by gunfire from German warplanes. The eighty children on deck had been brought by earlier transports to imagined safety in Holland. Altogether, though exact figures are unknown, the Kindertransports saved around 10,000 children, most of them Jewish, from Germany, Austria, Czechoslovakia and Poland. None were accompanied by their parents; a few were babies carried by children.
- Postcard of the week (17.01.2016)
- The Pier and Harbour, Harwich (posted in 1908)
- In 1908 Harwich Harbour was a hub of activity, here the G.E.R Steamers such us "Norfolk" and "Merrimac" plied tirelessly for trade and are seen here unloading passengers.
- Part of this project is to create a "virtual" panoramic view of Harwich, Dovercourt and Parkeston.
- Taking two cards and "stitching" them together, allows us to get such a view.
- Both these cards from 1908, belonging to the "Valentines" series were used to create this example.
- Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3HH click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (10.01.2016)
- The Y.M.C.A. "Sea View", 72 Main Road, Harwich (posted in 1909)
- This early postcard, taken at the junction of Alexandra Road and Main Road, was taken around 1907.
- The Dovercourt Y.M.C.A. was founded in July 1887 and operated from the local Mission Hall.
- "Sea View" was purchased by the Y.M.C.A. in July 1904, with 5 bedrooms, 3 receptions, Kitchen and Hall, spread across the five floors (please note this is now private accommodation).
- The other two postcards shown here, are portrait shots of the same building.
- Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3LH click here for Google Earth imagery.
- Postcard of the week (03.01.2016)
- An early view across Dovercourt Bay posted in 1902 (Valentines Series)
- This very early postcard scene by "Valentines", was taken around 1900 near the corner of Cliff Road.
- Note the road name has now changed from "Marine Drive" to "Marine Parade", Dovercourt.
- The postcard has a "plain" back, which was standard prior to 1903, with no communication allowed on the rear of the card, just the address under Post Office Regulations.
- Postcode for the nearest location is CO12 3HF click here for Google Earth imagery.
