I must say, it’s rare that one finds such an embarrassment of historical riches as the Flickr photo streams of bus enthusiasts. These dedicated folk, with a deep fascination for all things omnibus have a unique feature that makes their work interesting to those of us who may not be quite as into the old vehicles; they photograph them in their urban environments. Thus, the old scans they often post not only include the memorable old vehicles we all recall, but form a brilliant, invaluable documentary of changes in the towns they focus on. Not only this, but they seem an observant, engaged bunch who also photograph incidentals like building sites, road works and demolitions.
I’ve featured the work of enigmatic photographer Walsall1955 before – his photographs are an exhaustive, fascinating and addictive documentary of the changing public transport and townscapes of a transitional Black Country. I salute him, his work and encourage you all to go visit his Flickr stream and YouTube channel. Walsall1955 is just one of a whole range of enthusiasts posting priceless content, and I plan to feature more of his and other work in future posts.
Walsall1955 , I thank and salute you.
Changes in Park Street, Walsall, August 1975, from the Flickr stream of Walsall1955. Click on image to go to original photo and see comments.
Walsall Railway Station in the process of demolition, fascinated by the old shops and appearance of the corner of what is now the Quasar Centre, on the right. From the Flickr stream of Walsall1955. Click on image to go to original photo and see comments.
Stafford Street, Walsall 1975 - I can't place this and would appreciate some comment. What on earth was the full name of the shop, left of shot, and what did it sell? From the Flickr stream of Walsall1955. Click on image to go to original photo and see comments.
A night shot from 1980. Fentons - wasn't that a furniture shop? Am I correct in thinking it burned down? From the Flickr stream of Walsall1955. Click on image to go to original photo and see comments.
Townend bank, 1974, with the old ABC cinema in the background. Everything in this shot has changed - except the clock, a link to the past. Love the commer van. From the Flickr stream of Walsall1955. Click on image to go to original photo and see comments.
Walsall bus station at night, 1975. Sure I remember these old brick shelters From the Flickr stream of Walsall1955. Click on image to go to original photo and see comments.
The bus strike in 1978 - I can remember a relative walking to Walsall as there were no busses. From the Flickr stream of Walsall1955. Click on image to go to original photo and see comments.
I post this photo for the inclusion of the Dirty Duck pub, latterly a Berni Inn and The Black Swan. Many a hippy got drunk and/or stoned in the cellar bar there. Unaware of any other shots of this legendary pub. From the Flickr stream of Walsall1955. Click on image to go to original photo and see comments.
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The Stafford Street picture is looking towards Leamore, just to the south of the law courts (hidden by the bus). The Georgian buildings on the left were demolished not long after this shot was taken for the creation of Court Way (now part of the Ring Road) and the car on the right is turning into Stafford Street from Littleton Street (now also part of the Ring Road).
Great article as usual BTW.
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