The note on the reverse of this photo says ‘Annie Elizabeth Thomas (nee Edwards) born in Friezland Lane, Shire Oak on the 11th February 1893. Image very generously donated by Shirley Downes via David Evans.

In my neglectful absence, David Evans has been busy gathering material as he does, and he sent me the following, very generous and lovely photographic donation from local lady Shirley Downes regarding Annie Thomas.

Now I believe Annie was a well known character and respected lady in the area, and also think she may have been a noted pianist, often in Friezland Lane Working Mens Club, an institution I’m still desperately trying to find material about – and which we did recently have some success with – see this post here.

Shirley’s note on the reverse of this image says ‘I am sure this is Friezland Lane Club.’ – does anyone know when the photo dates from, what the event might have been, and can anyone name any of the other diners? Image very generously donated by Shirley Downes via David Evans.

David said of the donation

I would like to thank Mrs Shirley Downes for her immense generosity in offering these amazing images and adding the notes. I wonder if we can name some of the good folk seen at the social event in the club?

Clearly a musical family! The caption says ‘Annie Thomas, left with her daughter in law Violet.’ Image very generously donated by Shirley Downes via David Evans.

I, of course echo David’s sentiment in thanking Shirley, and would ask readers what they recall of Annie and if they can expand on any of the images, or what they recall of the club in that period?

You know the drill: Comment here, mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com or tug my coat on social media.

‘Outside 139, Chester Road, Shire Oak – Annie Thomas with her son, George.’ Image very generously donated by Shirley Downes via David Evans.