Old Birmingham, UK Photo Gallery by Keith Berry at pbase.com

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Keith Berry | profile | all galleries >> Old Birmingham, UK

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Old Birmingham, UK

A selection of my scanned photographs and slides taken
between the 1960s and 1990s, in and around Birmingham,
Bromsgrove, Smethwick, West Bromwich and Walsall.

You are welcome to add comments about, and personal
reminiscences of, the streets and neighbourhoods depicted.
Many thanks to those of you who have already done so,
as it very much helps to fill in the fine details.

Anyone feeling like discussing their Birmingham upbringing or experiences could try:
http://www.birminghamforum.co.uk and http://forums.birminghamhistory.co.uk

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Albert Road demolition	Old factory	Aston Hall Road, Aston	Aston Hall Road
Atkinsons Brewery	Atkinsons Brewery	Atkinsons Brewery	Atkinsons Brewery
Atkinsons Brewery	Atkinsons Brewery	Villa Star Café	Priory Road
Priory Road	Priory Road	Priory Road	Aston Cross
Aston Cross	Aston Cross	Radiation fire 1	Radiation fire 2
Aston Road	Steam loco at Aston No. 2 signalbox	Aston Road	off Aston Road
Aston Road	Aston Road	Aston Road	Aston Cross
Old locomotive	Old Locomotive 2	Aston Canal	Aston Canal
Boat yard	Alum Rock	Birchfield Road	Birchfield Road
Birchfield Road	Birchfield Road	Barker Street	Barker Street
Barker Street	Barker Street	George Street	George Street
Barker Street at John Street	Villa Road	Villa Road	night shop

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pages 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ALL

sheila dodd		22-Jul-2008 08:43
Please do you have any pics of Great Barr..1946 onwards.. I now live in New Zeaaland but have a lot of memories of G.B and Barr Beacon area would be nice......Kia Ora

John P		11-Jul-2008 22:35
What a stunning collection you have.I never realised how much I loved the "Old" Birmingham until I looked through your photos.What strikes me is how similar areas of Birmingham looked....terraced brown brick houses,a pub on the corner,a glowing shop front at night....God I'm nostalgic now!

Liz Woolley		04-Jul-2008 08:13
I found this site while looking for my Dad's school, Birchfield Road. The Off Licence on the corner of Lozells Road and Berners St was run by my Nan & Granddad in the late 50's & early 60's. I remember being lifted over the counter as a very small baby and taken into the back room to a roaring fire.

Jeffrey Tomasi		12-Jun-2008 07:43
Really a superb gallery, Keith! Wandered across this by accident this morning and don't have nearly enough time to give it its due, so definitely need to come back. Not only are there some great individual images here, but the overall impression of time and place compounds across the whole gallery. Extraordinary expressions of ordinary life! V!

Ray Bowen		07-Jun-2008 08:18
Thanks keith, the photos are brilliant. They trigger so many memories, Worked all over the city and the ones of Price st. in the gun quarter where we shared a building and courtyard whith a gunmaker in the mid 90's are superb. Sadly they also remind me of the hoards of Toolmakers who have `gone under` since then. One of Birminghams trades which no doubt will end up as a museum experience, next display at 2 o'clock, when the last one knocks the press off and hangs his cowgown on his vise handle for the final time.

Maggi		27-Apr-2008 18:43
There was a couple of photo's that really brought back some distant memories. Hawthorn Rd, i was raised in Kingstanding and my grandmother owned a florist nearby for over 25 years; also the picture of Birmingham Wholesale Market as i woked for Francis Nicholls (office) at the tender age of 16 after leaving school. But the credit goes to my late father Raymond Umbers who was a flowerseller in B'Ham market all his life, for Francis Nicholls and W. Newnes. Oh and by the way the name Les Field mentioned by another reader is familiar to me - maybe we worked together! Thanks for the memories.

Shirley Harison nee: Skinner		20-Apr-2008 15:24
What wonderful photo's. The one of Mount St. Recreation Ground was known to us kid's from Johnson St & playing there in the '50's as 'The Spy 'n' Cop'. That pile of dirt in the middle made a formidable climb. And I fell down it more than once. Over the road was the 'Old Ladies Park', don't ask me why. Then 'The Resa' & if you had enough time left, Brookvale Park. I lived in George Rd from 1971 until 2004, top end by Douglas' where I worked at one time. What I would love, but have never found are photo's of Nechells Park Road from the Railway Bridge toward's town. St. Clement's C of E School & Newton's. Any idea's????

Andrew Price		01-Apr-2008 21:11
Thanks Keith What a unique collection you have. Anyway wonder if that building is The Old Crown High St Deritend that Heather in Vancouver posted a comment about. I found a comment on the Loveday Street photo from a someone I used to know who lived at The Gun Makers Arms Pub. I havn't seen him for about 35 years. Once again Thanks Keith

Walter O. Koenig "Amoxtli"		13-Feb-2008 23:53
Amazing images. Very striking. Very well done. Thanks for scanning and sharing these with us. Definitely one of the more interesting galleries on PBase. Big "V"

Peter Brackley		12-Feb-2008 13:37
Thank you so much for bringing back so many memories. Our family lived in New John Street West until we were moved out prior to demolition in 1960 I think. Only three rooms in the house, living room, bedroom and attic for me and my sister, no hot water, shared loos in the yard and a brewhouse to do the washing in; hard but very happy times. Later went to KEGS Grammar school in Aston so your pictures are teh background to so much of my early life. Thank you for bringing back so many memories.

summergirl		06-Feb-2008 16:30
Fantastic photo's. Born Erdington 1971. If anyone knows of any photo's of the old Ship Ashore (used to be by Moor Street Station), can you point me in the right direction!

derek greaves		04-Feb-2008 14:50
fantastic fantastic i,ve lots of old photographs myself,when i was a kid growing up in nechells in the late fourties early 50s / 60s a lot of your pics i remember a lot of the area,s where they were taken amazeing how we lived back then but we,re still here. happy days thankyou for all the work you,ve put into them.. regards dereklcg.

faybridgestwest		24-Jan-2008 17:25
im crying was born 1953 moseley then moved in 54 to 101 bridge st west opp lucass factory anyone remember us at all?????????????/ dad was called t mum sheila ?????????madge nsor lived nearby too

Ted		24-Jan-2008 04:47
Excellent collection of photographs. Black and white is certainly very evocative.

Keith Berry		22-Jan-2008 00:00
Hello. The nearest I can date the photo of the Solihull memorial is 1959 to 1965.

ravenshaw		21-Jan-2008 10:32
The picture of your MSS Velocette near Earlswood was taken at the ford in Ravenshaw Lane, about a mile from the centre of Solihull. It's not all that far from Earlswood! Can you date the picture of the memorial in Solihull with any accuracy?

Paul		14-Jan-2008 20:13
I came across this site in search for photographs of the Ariel Factory. As a true British vintage motorcycle enthousiast, I wonder if someone has pictures of the former Ariel Works in Selly Oak down Grange road/Dale road before the Works where demolished in the late ’90s. Paul

Maureen Keane		07-Jan-2008 23:22
I was born and raised on Beaufort Rd in Erdington ;We left and moved to Ireland in the seventies. I now live in Az and would love to see/purchase old photos of that area. Can anyone help? Maureen.

Muriel Webb		29-Dec-2007 01:47
I googled "Loveday Street Maternity Hospital" and came across your site. Thank you, thank you! What a wonderful trip down memory lane from here in the US of A. Born in Birmingham, 1940.

Keith Berry		24-Dec-2007 15:58
In reply to Jean Henson, my grandfather, Frank Barson, was in the Villa's 1920-21 Cup winning team, then he left in the mid 1920s; returned to them for a while around 1945.

thomas		24-Dec-2007 02:04
its seems to be heading in the wrong direction, or is anyone noticing

Guest		11-Dec-2007 13:52
Fantastic site i live in erdington and i can not find any photos of my hous or the railway bridge or star picture housr all on slade road erdington PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE CAN ANYONE HELP ME? many thanks email blake.barry@hotmail.co.uk

mark pritchard		09-Dec-2007 16:05
Great collection ..thanks.Hope i can get my dad to look at these, the Aston Perry barr ones particularly.My mother , Betty Pritchard nee cashmore has just passed away , she was head girl at Canterbury Road school ( nice photo ) in the forties.My father 's family lived in Mansfield rd Aston, my Grandfather a lay preacher in the area. Mt Grandad Harry Cashmore worked at Atkinsons Brewery and my Nan"Cis" Cashmore lived at 291 New town Row in a haberdashery shop.. So thanks for these pictures I could never have.Mark Pritchard .Dec 007

Jean Henson		04-Dec-2007 20:19
Wonderful memories evoked by your photographs. I live at 159 Birchfield Rd. opposite those pictures including Atkinsons Chemist during the 40's and 50's but now live in Canada. My best friend (and still is!) lived at 22 Freer, the Homers. Your footballer grandfather when did he play for Aston Villa? My great uncles were Jack and Harry Devey who played late 1890's early 1900's when Villa used to win all the cups! Harry Devey was a Director of Villa until his death around 1938.

John Earl		30-Nov-2007 21:55
Fantastic record of the places I used to know as a kid in the 50s' and 60s'. This is a valuable record of the area. It has promted me to re-look at the many negatives I have back in UK when I am next there. Thanks for the memories. John in Tucson Arizona

Guest		23-Nov-2007 18:42
Does anyone know of the Church rooms Great Barr as I have a original Hymm book belonging to my gt gt grandmother.Inside it says not to be taken away by order!!!.I would love to see a picture of the place or more details of it.Thanks

Y Delaney		06-Nov-2007 00:02
Hi, I'm trying to track down a man that was best man for my parent's wedding in Perry Barr on 26th Dec 1957. I think his surname is Hollingsworth? The church was St Theresa's church. My aunt, Patsy Hough (Nee Delaney) was bridesmaid. Any information would be great. Thanks, Y Delaney, Dublin

Thomas Keegan		27-Oct-2007 03:13
Heather in Vancouver.The building you refer to was the Old Crown pub in Digbeth.Not really sure of its exact date of birth,but parts of the interior dated back to the 14 th century.When it was open it was a great place to have a drink on a stormy night and listen to some of the stories of the regulars.Complete with a ghost ,or two,as company.I actually sat down at a table there one night.There was a soldier in what looked like ww1 uniform.I asked him if anyone was using the other seat and he was gone into fresh air.I went to the bar and was intending to mention it,The bar man took one look at me and said' youve just seen the soldier havent you.Dont worry he,s harmless.

Carl Foley		20-Oct-2007 06:03
Amazing pictures, that brought a lump to my throat thinking of the happy and sadder times,But lots of laughs really can't thank you enough for publishing. The Newtown, Wheeler st pics are close to my heart after living in a block called White House off pannel croft for years (any of there per chance!) Now back in Erdington after living there from birth to twenty two, From your locations I presume you are local to the Area?

Keith Berry		16-Oct-2007 22:02
Thanks Graham. The maternity home was perhaps a quarter of a mile further up Heathfield Road in Finch Road. Both my wife and my brother were born there too.

Graham		16-Oct-2007 20:52
GB. Wonderful site. The photo of Heathfield Road showing empty space beneath the 'elephant mural'is I think the site of the old Maternity Home where I was born. We lived in The Broadway, Perry Barr, and the photos of Birchfield Road and Witton Road are particularly evocative. The old days were good, but I wonder how many of us would survive, if by some magic the clock was turned back? Yet when I was a kid in the 1950's there were no drugs, very little crime against property because there wasn't a lot worth pinching, and people actually spoke to each other. Lots of memories in this site!

GG		11-Oct-2007 19:46
Would anyone remember Roger Spencer who lived near the Old Picture House with his mother and sister in the 1040's?

Dave		25-Sep-2007 18:45
Fantastic photos, very atmospheric. Seeing the pics of the Bull Ring Market reminded me of my trips there in the 1960's and 70's. Although I was born in Brum my parents moved to London when I was small. Consequently we made frequents trips 'up north' to visit relatives. My gran lived in Alum Rock. Somehow we always managed to end up visiting the Bull Ring. To my eyes the place looked enormous, packed will stalls of every description. Very easy to get lost. Anyway thanks for sharing these photo with us. If anyone has got any old photo's of Great Lister Street that they are prepared to share, I'd be grateful. This is were my Gt Grandparents lived up until the early 1900's.

francine Lynton		20-Sep-2007 20:37
what a lovely find, I was looking for infomation about the history of fairfield near bromsgrove and found these lovely photos. I now live at the swan fairfield but was brought up in many pubs in birmingham over the years. I had lived in Birmingham city centre for many years in the late 50s/60 these photos brought back so many lovely memories. I was hoping there would be one from the old bingley hall as I lived with my family opposite at the bingley hall hotel and winter gardens hotel. thanking you francine.

andrew Griffiths		18-Sep-2007 13:03
What a lovely website! Born in Small Heath back in 1964. Move to Ireland in 1969. Must have a rummage through our old photos as I'm sure there must be some of Birmingham back in the 50's n' 60's. Anybody any old photos of "Old Know Road" just off coventry road? would love to see some. Cheers Andy

teresa		07-Sep-2007 13:11
I came across your site while trying to find out information regarding a building in Hunters Road Handsworth. The building is called The Carnegie Infant Welfare Institute. The building is still in use today. I am reasearching my family history and discovered that my two day old sister died here in 1951.The building has a statue of a woman and she is holding a infant in her arms. Can anyone give me any information regarding this building. Teresa

Dennis E.		06-Sep-2007 20:57
Thanks, by serendipity found site and had tearful remenice. (ex-Hockley lad,1930s/40s)

Anne Jessel		06-Sep-2007 19:23
Thoroughly enjoyed looking through. The site was recommended via the Birmingham History Webring when I was looking for "Lost Lidos". Although a West Bromwich lass I have had many connections with Birmingham. On perusing your pictures, getting nearer to "home" I loved the pictures of the Sandwell Valley. I used to walk down Forge Lane a few times - what a treck - onto the Newton Road and up to Old Church - my home. There are still Long Course Open Water Swimming Competitions held in the Sandwell Valley. Also it wasn't so long ago I was at Sandwell Golf Club for a Cousin's wedding anniversary party! My how the layout around that area has changed. Where the M6 is, used to be my schools playing fields! and the Archway leading down to the Sandwell Golf Club very much an integral part of the old wall and not standing alone in the middle of an island. All the posh houses gone. I'd love to see how it used to be once again.

Jan B		06-Sep-2007 12:15
What a brilliant site. Found you by accident & have now spent most of the day reminiscing with your fantastic gallery. I was brought up in Rosary Rd, Erdington. Brookvale park was my 'playground' & I spent most of my waking hours in it. I have such happy memories of my childhood there.

Saeed		23-Jul-2007 20:47
Compared to everyone else I must be a newcomer. I moved to Lozells in 1985 and have been here ever since. As everyone very well knows things have changed very dramatically in the last couple of decades. I volunteer for the Lozells Neighbourhood Forum and we along with the Council have organised a family festival in George St park on Sunday - everyone's welcome. Oh, how can we feature your work in our Resident's Newsletter? Many Thanks!

AH207		23-Jul-2007 16:56
Thank you, thank you for taking the time and effort to scan in all your old pictures and make them available for all ex-Brummies around the world to see. I grew up in Small Heath (primary, seconday schools) and then attended St. Philip's 6th Form collage on Hagley Road. Since then I have lived in Cambridge (University, 10 years), London (University, 6 years), Denmark (1 year) and now Lisbon in Portugal. Though my work takes me around the planet - not a day goes by when I don't think of my childhood and teenage years in Birmingham. Aston, Alum Rock, Lozelles, Bull Ring...its as if I lived another life! :-)

patrickjoust		21-Jul-2007 01:02
This is an amazing collection. Very fascinating, especially with your commentary to put each image in context. Great achievement. Well done!

Joy		05-Jul-2007 02:13
I've just been entranced by your wonderful collection of photos. The one picture that took me back so many years was looking down the entry - my Dad had his ladder hanging down the side of ours. I lived in Kings Heath and moved to Vancouver in 1965 and I was just talking to the young girls I work with about the cart horses who helped with the milk and coal deliveries - what a thrill to see your photo of one.

Phil S		03-Jul-2007 13:36
Fantastic site. Took me right back down memory lane. Excellent work, keeping adding...

Guest		02-Jul-2007 10:33
Hi Keith - these look amazing!! Thank you very much! Does anyone have any pictures of the old Warwick road, Sparkhill, Greet School area before they demolished it all for the dual carriageway? Probably about 1/4 mile up from the Stratford Rd/Warwick Rd junction picture you've got on the site. I used to live around there, and now it looks SO different. Thanks.

Mike		26-Jun-2007 00:13
Keith Berry you've made my day. What a magnificent site you have created. I was born and bred in Perry Barr and lived there until I married, then shifted to Handsworth Wood. Now living in New Zealand where we've been for the last 38 years. To see all the old haunts of Birmingham after all this time brings tears to my eyes. The wonderful photos you have posted have brought back so many memories for my wife and I. Bless you my friend.

Joan		13-Jun-2007 09:52
Brilliant photos. Lived in Mansfield Road from 1935 to 1957 - went to school at the Sacred Heart (the square tower in the distance on the Mansfield Road picture). I remember standing on those railings alongside the River Tame with flood water lapping my feet. This flooding was a regular occurrence in those days, and of course was a big attraction to us kids. Oh the excitement of these highly dangerous activities!

Steven		11-Jun-2007 03:55
Hi, great photos. My Nan lives in Albert Road, Aston. She moved there in 1950 and still lives there now, in fact before that she lived in Victoria Road. Great to see the pic of the house in Albert Road being ready for demolishion (shame though), guess it must have been due to the Aston Expressway being built? My Mom used to live in a flat above the shops in Gt Hampton Row, Newtown, so great to see that pic too. Best wishes, Steve.

Mark Swift		08-Jun-2007 23:43
I'm from Brum but now live in the California - is there any chance to actually purchase some of these as prints ? If so contact me at mswift@dreamworks.com

Keith Berry		02-Jun-2007 16:09
Hello Mark. I've just tried this with another photographer's gallery - Click on 'profile' and then 'recent' to see a list of recent additions. Regards, Keith

Guest		01-Jun-2007 13:49
Just came across this site. What fantsatic images of old Birmingham. I have lived in Birmingham for 52 years and these were great to look back on. Many Thanks for a superb collection. Phil Edwards

Maureen		28-May-2007 13:48
Thank you Albert, I have found the website and the Old Ladywood website, it brings back great memories, my father and sister still live in England and they tell me it has gone to hell in a handbasket. But at least we still have memories, like playing rounders on the street, school dinners, (I loved them) they were cooked in the school in my day, proper food not the plastic, additive full rubbish they get sent in these days. The smell of the Kayli in the sweet shop, Whirligig penny chocolates, fruit salads, black jacks, I could go on for ever.

Albert Moulsdale		28-May-2007 09:40
Maureen, if you look on www.oldladywood.co.uk website, I am sure you will see "The Laurels" There are several photos of Brookfields. There is also a Brookfields website. You can Google "Brookfields"to find it. It is run by Ted Rudge. As someone else said, These photos remind you of why you hated Brum at the time you lived there, but miss it like hell when you look back. I was born and bred in Ladywood. Lived in variuos other areas, and left for Reddith in 1972, and have lived in Pembrokeshire for the last 5 years. Still a Brummie though and love to go back to visit.

a.gibson		09-May-2007 15:28
thanks for some excellent pictures.i lived in brum from 1956 till 1976.now in newcastle upon tyne,i have been back but all the character has now gone.worked at joseph lucas,and fort dunlop.it was nice to see my old pub the norton at pype hayes.sad to see al the old industrys have gone.i also worked for other well known names like h.dare the builder and whites removals who i think are still trading.once again thanks.

guest		29-Apr-2007 00:40
These slides reminded me of why I hated Brum and yet theres a strange haunting quality that can only be appreciated by someone born there, a little bit like walking over your own grave...Keith Berry is Brum's equivalent of Samuel Pepys, they both catalogued their cities destruction.

Bob Shale		20-Apr-2007 19:40
The picture you have where you say thought to be is Aston Road North is actually Aston Road. I have two pictures of it myself.

Maureen		11-Apr-2007 11:56
I have looked on many sites but never found one as interesting as this one, I love looking at pics of old Birminham, even though I live in Ireland now, I would never return to live in England it is not the same as it was in the fifties, sixties and seventies, Birmingham went downhill. What I would love to see and have never come across, is a picture of a Pub that used to be on Hingeston Street, around the corner from George St West, it was called The Laurels, my mother used to work their as a barmaid, we would go to the outdoor when she was working and she would give us crisps, pop and chocolate caramel bars, I always had tomatoe sauce. flavour crisps but no one will believe me that they ever existed.

Monique		10-Apr-2007 10:40
hi

Tessa Westlake		26-Feb-2007 15:21
We were in Birmingham just yesterday as I have discovered that my father's family all came from there. We spent a day going round seeing if any of the old addresses on birth/marriage/death certificates still existed. Not many do, but seeing your pictures of Camden Drive, the Barrowcliff Spinnings place is still there on the corner, although the whole street is pretty much the worse for wear. My great grandmother stayed there in 1901 with her brother before having her baby in the workhouse! I also had a great grandmother who lived in the Jewellery Quarter, so it was great to see some photos of that area. Thanks for posting all these wonderful pictures!

paulofranco		25-Feb-2007 06:39
Hi Keith! The atmosphere ("climate") of his pictures made with the Kiev 4 is very pleasant to the eyes. It is also inspiring for be done pictures in black and white. Congratulations! Voted.

Keith Berry		11-Feb-2007 16:46
Sounds like the Old Crown in Deritend. I've emailed you details separately.

Heather in Vancouver		11-Feb-2007 10:48
Thank you for a wonderful site. I'm hoping you can help me. Last summer I visited the UK and happened to travel by coach through central Birmingham (never again in a heatwave!) Close to the bus station we passed a very old building about 17th century or earlier at a guess. It looked like a former coaching inn and would comfortably have fitted into the set of Lord of the Rings. As I recall it was very dusty and I think boarded up. I didn't have time to snap a picture and because I was in the midst of a tough journey I neglected to ask anyone about it. Do you have any knowledge of this building or where I might find a picture of it? Thank you.

John		08-Feb-2007 16:19
A wonderful collection of photos. Many thanks.

Elsa		03-Feb-2007 23:29
What an amazing gallery!I ve spent hours looking through all the photos and have been completely distracted from what I was originally doing.I came across the site while doing a search on industrial buildings in the jewellery quarter for an assignment i m writing on industrial buildings and regeneration. I was intrigued by all the photos from the 1960's and 70's as i m only in my 20's and have a fascination with industrial buildings particularly back-to-back houses and i ve never come across photos of such quality!I only hope that in 40 years time we won't be looking at empty spaces where the buildings in the 2006 photos were.

Angela T		01-Feb-2007 13:02
Hi Keith, what an amazing collection of photos. I visited Birmingham for the first time in nearly 40 years last Sunday 28th January, although I have driven over the motorway many, many times. I visited Minstead Road, Erdington where I was born in 1951. My family left in 1957 and we moved to London. The road has hardly altered at all but I was completely shocked that the roundabout and Spaghetti Junction start at the bottom of Minstead Road, all the shops have gone. The Oval is still at the top of the road although it used to be covered in many trees and thousands of blue bells would appear in the Spring, which I used to pick and take home for Mum. My dad’s aunt lived in the black & white house on the corner of the Oval. My sister and I used to play with all the other kids on the steep gully at the side of the Oval on sledges in the snow. I remember waking up to the smell of brown sauce every morning as the HP (?) factory was nearby. I went to St John & St Mary primary school on Gravelly Hill, my aunt who died many years ago lived on Hunton Hill. My dad, and 3 aunts, worked at the Dunlop factory, which is now offices. My Mum and Dad met there during the war. I remember the fantastic Christmas parties they held for the children of Dunlop workers and the huge presents they gave away. I had some relatives who lived at Handsworth Wood when the new housing estates were being built in the late 1950s. We spent hours playing in the half built houses running up and down the wood planks on the building sites. I also remember Rookery Park & Sutton Park spending many hours with mum and dad there in the summers and I vaguely remember Solihull and Bromsgrove. What memories. I felt very nostalgic and tearful looking at your photos. Thanks so much for printing them.

Robbie Dempsey		08-Jan-2007 23:34
This site brings back wonderful memories of a chldhood spent in Aston and Erdington. I never thought I'd see the old Albion pub again. Dad worked in Ansells Brewery. I was born in 1948 so I can remember getting the tram into Town !! Well Done to Keith Berry.

Barry Morley		01-Dec-2006 12:53
Keith, what a fantastic array of pictures and memories. Although born in Bordesley I did live and work in Aston for a number of years. I worked at Tubes Ltd in Rocky Lane for 12 years before moving to Scotland in 1977. Just found the photo of Hallidays in Electric Avenue, that brings back memories because my old Dad worked there all his life. Never thought I,d see that place again. Wonderful memories. Many,many THANKS.

Janet Harris		25-Nov-2006 07:07
Oh my goodness !! Memories are made of these... I was born in Park Street, Aston. Have some fantastic memories,great friendships.Playing in Aston Park,swimming at Vic baths.I went to Manor Park schools.Please if you do have any more pics of Aston,i would so appriciate them.Im now living in Australia. Thank you so much for these treasures..What a delight..WOW.

John K Colin		08-Nov-2006 11:22
Keith, I think your photographs are Great.....I just wish that I had the foresight to take some when I lived in Aston at that time.....but I was a young lad and rather played football than to take snaps shots of history.....thanks again John PS: I hope you can add a few more.

H.G. Sewell		29-Oct-2006 10:15
Have just received all your "pictures"strangely enough from a friend in South Africa.A very interesting time was spent viewing same. I was most interested to see you were a Velocette owner at one time,I was Service Manager at the time of their demise. It was a pity you felt you had to dispose of your MSS as a very good friend of mine who was a dedicated Velo dealer did provide spares and indeed Velo Machines to order, in fact a number of his buyers were from overseas.The dealer was Geoff Dodkin,he still shows a great interest in the Marque and you will always find him visiting Stanford Hall when the Velo Owners Club & the "LE" club have the annual show. Do hope one day you may obtain a selection of 'photos from the war years to depict how much the people of Brum endured the Blitz etc. Yours H.G.(Bill)Sewell

Chris Slade		21-Sep-2006 11:13
What a happy accident!...Looking for an old friend and found your fantastic archive. I used to live at 244 Hamstead Road (between 1960 and 63) - right opposite the gates to Handsworth Park. I used to make a few bob helping exhibitors break down their stands at the Flower Show. I admire your pereverance and dedication. Congratulations.

Paul Ashford		17-Sep-2006 13:49
Certainly a great find. I have only just started to research our family history and these photos have certainly inspired me to keep going. I left Perry Barr in 1963, as a 12 year old, and emigrated to Oz with my parents. I can actually still remember some of the places in the photos, Perry Barr Park, Handsworth, ....great stuff. If anybody reading this knows anything of the history of the Ashford or Hicks family from Lower Tower Street (early 1900's to 1950) would appreciate you passing it on. pashford@eim.ae

michael williams		03-Sep-2006 20:21
what a fabulous find.I lived at 111 wellington road and then moved to a road off slade in erdington.went to handsworth tech and then left in the mid 50s.brookvale park even!!!!!

Louette Jacot		22-Aug-2006 19:22
Many thanks for the photos - it brought so much back! I used to live in Wellington Road, just opposite the boarded up shops - next to the bookmakers was a very small sweet shop in the 1960s. Sometimes I have nightmares that I am back there and running up the long drive to the house, so it is rather nice to see that it has all returned to nature and is green and growing......

kathleen		14-Aug-2006 23:52
we think your pictures are great.my mom lived in aston round that time and remembers it well.she now lives in handsworth near soho rd.we think the boy on the left in the vimto kid pic is my dad whos name is michael garland he lived on arden road durin 1970s now lives in the erdington area.if any of you no or remember him would be nice to hear ur comments.and thanks kevin berry 4 some very interesting pictures.

Guest		13-Aug-2006 09:14
great photos. But I hate seeing pictures of places like how Aston Cross was, and knowing what a mess of such areas and communities Birmingham council made. I'll bet there are not many retired from the planning department poor.

Huge fan of your work		10-Aug-2006 09:46
Any chance of seeing a photo of the wonderful man behind the camera?

P Green		09-Aug-2006 19:25
very good photo;s nice to see the "old Brum" Well Done to you all

Guest		09-Aug-2006 10:21
Another who stumbled on the website, courtesy of 'Pearcy', from the Blues footymad website! Got me somewhat distracted from my original search for Blues news etc. but what a wonderful collection of photos (even those around Aston)! Born in Bordesley, moved to Solihull and eventually Australia! Don't regret any of it at all, but nice to see some pictures of where I enjoyed my childhood and as things were when I was a child. I'll bookmark the site and hope it expands as I contract!

Maureen		01-Aug-2006 11:14
I love looking at these photo's, I lived in George St West (back to back houses) in the 60s until we moved to handsworth, I now live in Ireland but your photo's bring back such memories of my childhood, though poor housing, happy times, I get a huge lump in my throat when I see something familiar that takes me back to when I was little.

wendy		13-Jul-2006 11:20
great photos love lookin at them

Keith Berry		12-Jul-2006 00:06
You can find links to City Centre photo sites on the two forums mentioned above, including 38 pages of Phyllis Nicklin's 1954-68 slides.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 20:53
I hope it's ok to ask this! I'm trying to find photos of the city centre during the 1970s/80's/90's-any ideas? Thanks.

dave stamps		02-Jul-2006 01:08
tried everywhere to find photos or info on old ilmington school in weoley castle, no luck at all, any ideas... thanks... dave stamps

sasdite		30-Jun-2006 16:18
(The handswoth houses photo's.) I have located the building which says unable to locate renovated biulding.. It was the Boulton arms pub. It stands on the corner of Victoria road and nineva road. It was renovated into new flats with a car park. I used to live at ! victoria road and I remember looking at the derilict pub over the years and watched it become over grown. I witnessed it being renovated and people moving in to the flats.

Gerry		17-Jun-2006 00:54
Thanks for bringing back a some great memories Keith , having grown up on Mansfield Road and never seen any pictures of it from when i was a kid your photos are a fantastic reminder!!

Ray Tabberner		16-Jun-2006 04:19
Great work. I spent several hours just browsing through the collection. I was born in Birmingham in 1933(Cuckoo Rd, Nechels). Went to Elliot Street School. Rode the Number 7 bus to Lewis's Store to buy model airplanes. Went to Saturday pictures at the Star Picture house on Slace Road, Erdington. I left England in 1947. Thanks for bringing back some fond memories.

Elaine		08-Jun-2006 22:53
Fantastic photos of a time long gone.I had a particular interest in the Brookvale Park photos as i spent many years playing there as a child and remember it as if it were yesterday.Do you have any photos of Slade Road in Erdington? would love to revisit it as it was in my childhood in the 60's. Thank you for the great photos it was a pleasure to see how our city once was...before it was ruined.

Tony G		01-Jun-2006 18:51
A treasure-trove of beautiful and evocative images, painstakingly captured over the years by someone who clearly cares about our rich heritage. Thank you Keith for all your obvious hard work, for taking the time and trouble to share this labour of love with us all and for letting us relive the history of our region through your eyes. It is sometimes painful to recall how much we have lost to the whims of fashion and over-zealous 'planners'. Thanks to you, and those like you who remind us so vividly of our fascinating past in and around Birmingham, the memories truly linger on! Best wishes. Tony G

Guest		01-Jun-2006 08:28
Dave.P 22-May-2006 15:30 Like many came across site by accident,absolutly marvelous,grew up in Handworth,attended Grove Lane School/Handsworth Technical School in the 60.s Handsworth park was a great play ground,spent one summer helping the old chap out on the boating lake,I always trying to sneek into the annual flower show and remember taking part in the annual Scout Jamboree,which I think was attended by one of the Royal family in about 66.Great memories Thanks

Jose Paulo Andrade		31-May-2006 15:25
Congratulation to you! A very good gallery showing your city.

Sylvie		25-May-2006 13:43
What a fantastic site, I came across it by chance hoping to see PARK LANE. I lived close to Thomas Street/Upper Thomas Street.That was in the 1940/50s. Our yard was next to the garage on the corner. Many memories..

Dorinda McCann		25-May-2006 12:25
Dear Keith, Came across your website quite by accident and what a find. I lived in Lozels Rd until I was 5 in 1955 and I remember so many things about it. Bellringers the greengrocers, the post office that had a collie dog called Stamp, Clissols the newsagents etc. I lived in 124 Lozels Rd between a cobler called Baines I think and a cake shop called Paynes. My parents drank in a pub called the Village Maid and also in The Boar's Head in Perry Bar. I attended a wedding as a flower girl in 1954 at the wedding of Desmond Edwards and Doreen Lamb from Springthorpe Rd Erdington. I attended Westminster Rd school for a short while before moving to Wales. How many memories your site brought back to me, I didn't realise just how many places I remembered. You brought tears to my eyes for many reasons, the main one being that I have been looking for my real brother who was born in Stampford Rd in 1946 and adopted. I have tried every avenue to find him but without success. It breaks my heart to think that he must have walked those streets and is possibley stll walking them and I will never know him. Thank you so much for sharing your photos, the main one to make me cry was of the milk horse who I remember vividly. When I was about three my dad took me out to see her wearing a garland around her neck for Mayday. Kind regards and deep thanks Dorinda McCann

Paul Phillips		22-May-2006 21:49
Excellent photos, Keith. I also came across this site quite by accident, at age 40 I'm just about old enough to remember parts of old Brum. Sadly, they show clearly how successive redevlopment projects in this city haven't necessarily been for the better. Particularly sad is the way most small shops, especially in the city centre, have been replaced by corporate chainstore blandness.

Jenny Nicol		17-May-2006 03:14
Great photos Keith. Thank goodness for your interest in Brum and your local and not so local interests in areas both close by and father away over the decades. I really appreciate the idea that I can look at them from time to time. To anyone who is interested in their Aston heritage please have a look at the Aston History website at http://forums.birminghamhistory.co.uk. It's a very friendly forum and the site reflects Aston's past history.

Brian Heath		06-May-2006 23:02
Fantastic collection of photos. There are two photos that I am looking for in particular and wonder if you or any of your viewers may have such. My eldest daughter was born in 1960 in Thomas Street, Aston. We were part time caretakers of Aston Manor Baptist church and lived next door to the church. I would love a copy of any pictures of the church, preferably with the house next door. My aunt owned a pawnbrokers shop, which later became a haberdasherie shop on the corner of Wheeler Street and Cliford Street, Lozels. It used to have a large sign painted on the wall with my aunt's name, R.S.Lawley. Can anyone please help?

Bill Nicholson		06-May-2006 14:06
Absolutely wonderful. Found this site whilst searching for images to include in story of my childhood which I have written for my grandson. I lived in Bartons Bank, Aston from about 1947 to 1961. Went to Albert Road School then Handsworth Grammar School. Spent hours in Aston Park: learned to swim at Victoria Road Baths. The photograph of the mock-tudor buildings on Villa Road show where my father (Jack Nicholson) had his design studio for a short while. He was member of Aston Amateur Photographic Society. Two aunts/uncles lived round corner in Potters Hill. These high quality images are a vital record of our disappearing urban heritage. Many thanks for sharing them.

Helen Cooper		20-Apr-2006 13:45
Loved the photo of Legge Lane. I have been tracing my family history from over here in Australia. I have managed to gather heaps of facts and figures, but now attempting to fill it out with the narrative of their lives and times. I have been trying to track down info about their homes and work places.Though this snap would not be anything like what it was back in the 1800's it is good to see. I have been told that Legge Street has now disappeared and is under a highway. Well done.

Dave		10-Apr-2006 23:48
Amazing ... seems we have a similar eye! Looking at the old images really was quite a thrill because I am undertaking a little jewellery Quarter documentary project myself. So much is still changing every week. The Legge Lane shot had my eyes popping because I live a minute from there and just didn't recognise it at first. You've done an amazing job while I have barely started mine. These kinds of projects are so important. Inspiring. If you're interested how things are shaping up around here then have a look at my site at www.davidconroy.com I usually post 4-5 shots a week.

mark matthews		30-Mar-2006 12:32
hello keith my names mark i came across ure site and found it really interesting ime only 26 and dont remember what it must have been like in those days, but it was a lot nicer back in those days as today, ure site is realy interesting and i spent hours looking and printing pictures off. i was wondering if u had or if u new how to get any photos or documents on my area which i live which is great barr birmingham as i i would love to see my area in the old times, also if u could get any photos of where my father grew up on victoria road , aston or potters hill or upper thomas street. i would be very grateful if u could and again i enjoyed ure site.

Guest		16-Mar-2006 22:45
To COLIN CARWITHEN VIA KEITHS PAGE. COLIN you would find most people at that time buried at Warstone Lane Cemetary Or at Key Hill. These Cemetaries are almost adjacent to Hingeston Street. Happy research. Charles.....

Dave		16-Mar-2006 22:27
Keith I think you should publish your collection. why dont you get in touch with Professor Carl Chinn at Radio W.M. in the Mailbox B,ham. My playground was the Jewellery Quarter I lived there for 28 years. I went to school at St Peters Place which today is unrecognisable as Brindley Place all the muck & grime taken away I would love to purchase copies of your photos

avryl everton		03-Mar-2006 14:55
what a fasinating trip down memory lane. I was born in Tame Road Witton in 1953 and to see the road again how it used to be, has bought a lump back in my throat. Oh for those days. Of course being a true Aston Villa supporter helps bring back fond memories. Well done.

Mohamed Nafis		03-Mar-2006 04:58
Thank you keith. I grew up in Birmingham. I used to live close to the intersection of Heathfield road and Birchfield road in the early eighties.Your work has brought back old memories. Do you have any photoes of Wilson road, as this is where i lived.

Beryl Trimble (Martin)		13-Jan-2006 07:42
I came across your site while researching my ancestors. Fantastic site and wonderful photos. I was taken back many years as I saw places that I remember so well. Lots of chances for nostalgic memories and, unfortunately, sighs of sadness too....to see these wonderful buildings falling prey to 'progress'. Many thanks for this thought provoking insight into Old Birmingham life. It's great to see 'home' again after many years living in Canada.

lynda upton		05-Jan-2006 19:32
the shakespeare family lived in farm street hockley, mum dad 9 children we left in 1966, these photos are so wonderful it reminds me of our child hood, thank you i live in australia and often think of my childhood thank you again

Lyn Freund		28-Nov-2005 16:53
Thank you so much for these photos - I grew up in Birmingham and knew a lot of the places shown here, I used to go to the Onion fair when I was around 11, lots of great memories and I am not sure if todays progress is really for the better - it was hard times but good people and friends. I have been in Canada for 30 years now but Brum is always home.

colin carwithen		27-Nov-2005 20:19
dear sir found you by accident and found it very addictive as my ancestors came from camden st and hingeston st in 1880/1900s,which school would they have attended and where would they be buried,any ideas yours colin

garlain		20-Nov-2005 22:06
sir found your site by accident but was impressed as i was brought up in smethwick (summit crescent,across galton bridge in similar pre-fabs as shown in great barr)(and the old chapel area),and some of my ancestors lived in camden st,hingeston st crab tree rd and new spring st. do you know where ican see other photos of these area"s thanks for a great site colin

julie		02-Nov-2005 15:48
thank you for sharing beautiful pic's of places that have gone for ever.... doing my brough family history,they were all brum born,and you have captured images of some streets that i have looked up on old census's. they have brought my family history to life............thank you for sharing

Linda Newey		11-Oct-2005 13:15
what a treasure trove of photos, thank you. As I am looking into my Birmingham family history, photos such as yours are so valuable, as they can help to 'illuminate the past'.

Mark Rutter		11-Oct-2005 11:37
Only part way through and I must come back. A very interesting collection for sure. By looking at old pictures I am trying to understand better what taken now would be of interest in the future. The act of being demolished makes them more interesting. The ones I find the most interesting are where you have also included everyday people, cars, bikes etc. Thanks for sharing.

Keith Berry		23-Sep-2005 00:53
Thanks Norm. I appreciate that.

Norm		22-Sep-2005 22:37
Keith, I don't know Birmingham at all, but I find your non-pretentious record of street life outstanding.

Guest		17-Sep-2005 17:00
I WAS BORN IN ASTON IN 1967 PARK ROAD U GOT ANY PIC ANY ONE MARTIN BRUM

alan		05-Sep-2005 11:19
magic shots! I was born in park road hockley in 1955 and left in 1960. thanks for sharing.

Rosy		22-Aug-2005 16:04
These are excellent photographs, thanks for letting us all see them. I was born in Ladywood in Birmingham in 1947 and left for good in 1966. I remember Brum before all the massive redevelopment, and these pictures capture it very well. I used to walk round Deritend looking at all the old and/or derelict buildings and wishing I was good enough at drawing to sketch them. Wish I'd had a camera with me then!

Guest		21-Jun-2005 12:40
I came upon this site purly by accident and what a brilliant experience this has been. I makes me realise how much Birmingham has changed over the years not just the builing but the people who occupy them. It also make me realise just how much of the original Birmingham has now gone for ever and unfortunately we are still destroying whole area's of it. Lets hope the new East Side development is more sympathetic and retains some of the structures we know and love.

Tim		03-Jun-2005 13:44
These photos date back to about the time of my earliest Birmingham memories.Some I remember,some are new,but all are interesting:o) Being an expat working in Iraq it sure is nice to be reminded of a home I haven`t seen for 5 years. Thanks Keith Tim

Pam B		03-May-2005 02:43
I was homesick for Brum before I saw your photos....and am more so now! Thank you for the memories

Edwin Lockwood		23-Feb-2005 07:32
Your Birmingham pictures brought back lots of memories. I frequently used the bus stop on Heathfield Road in the fifties and sixties, catching the 29A. I was also watched the Billy Smarts Circus parade along Birchfield Road at the age of 6. You have many well composed shots with wonderfull textures.

Peter Walker		06-Feb-2005 01:08
Just to say your photos are wonderful - not just historically but technically and artistically. Lovely shots through the arch bridge on Nineveh Road and some terrific details. A superb record, but it makes my nostalgia worse! Peter

mfloody		18-Nov-2004 20:55
Many thanks for sharing your Birmingham pictures with us all they are a testament to the ever changing face, and not always for the better, of a great city. Mike Floody

Selvin Chance		22-Oct-2004 08:52
Congrats, lovely photos to remind us of our past. Aloha

Ray Pettit		20-Oct-2004 23:20
Keith - what priceless photos. I come from "down south" and really value the inclusion of such images for a wider audience. I hope your web page here could be linked to a local and family history sites, or even the City Archives?

virginiacoastline		18-Oct-2004 23:51
excellent B&W collection . . . and altho I like the color ones, they distracted me in this nicely done gallery . . .yet I enjoyed looking at them, so I don't have a suggestion =] . .gets a vote nonetheless

Derek Slater		17-Oct-2004 09:34
Really enjoyed your Old Birmingham gallery. Thank you for taking the time and effort to make it available to us all. Derek

Peter Barton		14-Oct-2004 16:50
I liked your pictures very much. I was in Birmingham in the 60's and this all looks so familiar. Well done. Peter

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