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

For more photos and a history of Birmingham's placenames see William
Dargue's excellent site at: http://billdargue.jimdo.com/index.php

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next page

Walsall shopping arcade	Walsall Market	Walsall Market	Walsall Market
Walsall Market	Walsall Market	Walsall	Walsall
Walsall	Walsall Trolleybus	Walsall	Walsall
Walsall	Henry Street	Walsall	Walsall workshop
Walsall	Walsall	Walsall	Walsall
Walsall Market	The Albion Inn	Dorridge	Old Farm
Earlswood Lakes	Earlswood Lakes	Muddy path	2CV Centre

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

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comment |

Derek		05-May-2012 20:23
Hi rfer I lived in perry common ,I Enderby rod that lay between Broomhill,Road and dovedale,Road,I also remember the bonfires,and the celabrations,I also remeber pianos in the roads to My Auntie live just across the road from the college arms pub,My god as a child i have seen then come out of there on their hand and knees my dad being one of them,my mom was from warren farm road,her name was Stanton we had family all around that area,I know the school Cranbourn road we used to meet up with kids from there , i ended up ging to warren farm school,How i ,and i suppose many of us wish we could go back to those days those happy days,Do you remember the prefabs by the kingstanding baths,and the home and colonial shop , I remeber in the pathing stones in the middle of the prefabs there was heads of royalty layed there not sure if it was the kings head or the queens,but when they demolished them my brother lifed those stones and found an old penny,Well maybe just maybe we have passed each other in one of those roads who knows,take good care my friend,,,,,,Derek

Rfer		05-May-2012 12:11
Hello Derek--no I don't know the name Vickers. My first home ( from 1941 )was in Perry Common, were we spent the war years till early 1945( the longest period of stability we ever had). Then we moved to the other side of College Rd at New Oscott, where I vividly remember the VE day cellibrations, with our piano in the middle of the road (dad was an excellent pub pianist) and later, the huge bonfires in the middle of the road--every 100 yds or so, making it impossible for vehicles to pass without driving --not without risk---on the pavements.I remember going with my dad to the College Arms pub to get some extra booze, and every street had a fire or two blazing away. A similar memory of VJ night in the August is still fresh also. I was only 4 then. I think we moved to Kingstanding in 1947/8, not much of a change of scene, but when your very young it seems miles away. After that, we moved to Handsworth, Smethwick, then to the South West, and I was only 13 then. I'm trying to remember the School i went to while at Kingstanding, I think it was called Cranbourne road school, although looking at a current street map, it has changed it's name. One final memory, while at that school, was a terrific thunderstorm one summer mid afternoon,about 2.30pm, no kidding, it became so dark, that all the lights had to be switched on, not just in the school, but houses, street lights, cars etc ,it was as if night had fallen within 15 minutes. The noise of the thunder ,and chain lightening, tropical heavy rain and hailstones, was so scary, that we kids were screaming and crying. Our parents turned up to take us home early. Stuff of nightmares, so not to be forgotten.--Phil.

Derek		27-Apr-2012 09:38
Hello Rfer, I have just had a memory come into my head,There was a family that lived two doors from us by the name of vickers, the eldest girl was named Pauline ,and a brother named George,a younger brother by the name Derek,and a girl named elaine,I think George married a local girl,and went to live in Oz somewhere, My god would this by any chance be the family you married into,,,,,,,,,

Derek		26-Apr-2012 13:40
Hi Rfer I remember jumping everyones garden in our road we called edge hoppin,one time sticks in my mind jumped this edge one night,and landed in an old tin bath full of water it was,nt there a couple of nights before the bloke must have seen us and thought i will teach them a lesson i was soaked through did,nt stop though,and yes scrumping was good fun,but like you say things chage like in my village the oranges ,pomegranites,peaches they all just fall and rot,i have all these trees in my garden ,and i give most of the fruit away,do you know it would be lovely for you and i to walk the roads of our childhood think of the memories it would bring back,well take care

Derek		26-Apr-2012 13:40
Hi Rfer I remember jumping everyones garden in our road we called edge hoppin,one time sticks in my mind jumped this edge one night,and landed in an old tin bath full of water it was,nt there a couple of nights before the bloke must have seen us and thought i will teach them a lesson i was soaked through did,nt stop though,and yes scrumping was good fun,but like you say things chage like in my village the oranges ,pomegranites,peaches they all just fall and rot,i have all these trees in my garden ,and i give most of the fruit away,do you know it would be lovely for you and i to walk the roads of our childhood think of the memories it would bring back,well take care

Rfer		20-Apr-2012 16:36
Hello Derek--It was a very different world then, in many ways. Like I said before, there weren't many 'treats' in that post war era, and by that I include food. Scrumping was a national pastime for boys (mainly) and although obviously illegal---(and immoral, someone looses their prize products)it did supplement our meagre diets. For us 4, it became a sort of competition, each year we'd compile a list of fruits etc that we had to scrump (nick), and like trainspotting engine numbers, we'd tick the ones we got. The more exotic the better, but it had to be from the vine so to speak, and evidence produced. We'd collect anything if we got two of the same thing, and it kept us accupied and out of any other more serious trouble. I can honestly say that the only other mischief we were involved in was a 'game' where we had to travel down the length of a street at night, but crossing over the BACK garden fences without being seen (preferably), OR caught. I can still feel the tingle of excitment---nuts or what ? As a postscript to scrumping--It diappeared when times got better. It is criminal how much fruit is left to rot in peoples gardens these days, and in fact, a stroll into my local village brings me past several friut trees heavily laided --hanging down in your face as you pass by---NO ONE seems to be bothered or tempted to take any, they just rot. My neighbour leaves his 'fall' on the ground, and despite me dropping hints, he never offers me any---time to get my burglar kit out the loft, with night vision goggles.

Roy Parsons		11-Apr-2012 14:21
Kieth an excellent collection of photos of what I now call Old Birmingham. all though I was born and bread in the Black Country I went to Birmingham every day, early mornings to the Wholesale Fruit & Veg Market. I remember driving through Lee Bank just past the Accident Hospital And Opposite Davenports Brewery into sherlock st. and then down to Moat Row and then Moat Rd. into the Market I new that area like the back of my hand. I had to go to Bradford St about six years ago. and got completly lost. Many Thanks.

Roy Parsons		11-Apr-2012 14:19
Kieth an excellent collection of photos of what I now call Old Birmingham. all though I was born and bread in the Black Country I went to Birmingham every day, early mornings to the Wholesale Fruit & Veg Market. I remember driving through Lee Bank just past the Accident Hospital And Opposite Davenports Brewery into sherlock st. and then down to Moat Row and then Moat Rd. into the Market I new that area like the back of my hand. I had to go to Bradford St about six years ago. and got completly lost. Many Thanks.

Derek		09-Apr-2012 19:57
Hi Rfer Glad to help an ex brunmmie,Regarding the old spitfire if memory serves me right it was a couple of years after the cadets disbanded it was cut up for scrap metal,pity they did not keep it like you say it would be worth a fortune today,Its nice to think we once trod in the footsteps all those years ago ,and us now being worlds apart, all arond kingstanding there was scumpers Ha,Ha

Rfer		09-Apr-2012 13:01
Hello Derek (Wickett) Thanks for responding to my piece about Kingstanding. And thank you for resolving that lifelong mystery for me, about the Vanilla aroma. I had asked many people about it who had lived in the area, and strangely, none could recall it, I thought maybe I had imagined it. I suppose the wind had to be in the right direction. As kids living in postwar austerity with few treats available (rationing of sweets etc)the smell of ice cream grabbed ME alright. Every time I think of that spot where the buses used to pull in by the shops---just before the left turn down Kingstanding Rd, I am there---it was a hot summer, the smell of diesl oil / smoke from the buses ,stickey tarmac, fish and chip batter, and Vanilla ice cream. smells are just as potent as sound and vision.I wonder what happend to the 'Spitfire / Hurricane' ? Imagine it's value today. lets hope it was restored and is now flying. We lived in Melverly Grove for a couple of years, the houses were typical 30's bow fronted semis, ( the poshest house we ever lived in) and the widow next door used to hand a tray with tea and biscuits on it, through the bay bedroom window into ours, every Sunday morning. This stopped our bouncing on the beds for a while. To discourage us from scrumping her Victoria plums, she would invite us round to help ourselves. It made wonderful Jam, and mom gave her some of our Damsons. Happy memories. Rfer.

Derek wickett		07-Apr-2012 09:24
Hi Refer,Boy i remember all the places you have mentioned,,and the ai cadets which i used to attend,The sweet smell of vanilla i understood from my late mother was a place where ice cream was made it was left at the top of hawthorn rd and just down on the right by the old T.A base there was a building next door which was a dairy the ice cream was made at the rear of the dairy,My god i just love remembering old times,I have lived in cyprus for the past 10 years,but most of my family are still around Kingstanding,great barr,And i visit a few times a year it is nice ti walk the old pavements,,,,,,,,,,,

Denise Hodon		28-Mar-2012 13:29
Hi again, just gone through all the photos again and still found them full of memories, left Birmingham in 1962, unfortunately only one member of family left there. I am trying to find to old school friends, (Manor Park Girls School or Vicarage Road, whichever you know it by). They are Diane Hawkes who I know married Ian Lambe, although now divorsed and lived in Holte Road, the other is Diane Partridge who lived in Sycamore Road and worked at Rackhams. I am led to believe she now lives with her sister in Sutton Coldfield or Castle Bromwich. Fingers crossed

Guest		27-Mar-2012 13:52
I came on your web site to try and get some photo's for my mom's 70th birthday. We all grew up in Marsh Lane and my mom was born in Jaffray Crescent in 1942. I left Birmingham in 2006 to live in Brighton and am still homesick so all your wonderful pics are really great although it makes you realise how much it has changed! Birmingham will always be special to me as I lived there for 40 years so thank you so very much for some really wonderful memories.

Rfer		25-Mar-2012 17:29
Jeanette Vickers (Newton) just to avoid confusion--my 'handle name' came out as 'Afer' for some reason--it's Rfer.

Afer		25-Mar-2012 17:22
Jeanette Vickers- (Newton) Hello-I'm afraid I don't know your family, but I was born in 1941, but the old man must have had gypsy blood because we rarely stayed in one place more than 2 yrs. But we did live in various places in Kingstanding/ New Oscott during the time you were there--1941-48. As you are writing a book of memories? I can tell you a few things you might remember as a memory jog. For a while I lived in Melverley Grove off the Kingstanding Road--just opposite Goodway road junction, and just up the hill on the left was a dairy--Hornbys ? Further up beyond the houses was a cleared area where a Fairground frequented , I'm not sure if it was permanent or Travelling. Towering above was a huge red sandstone cliff, with a row of houses perched on top of it. Opposite at the top of Kingstanding Road ( on our side) was an equaly huge black slagheap, behind which were the Hawthorn road shops. On top of this cliffe were Furniture removers and secondhand car traders 'Thompson Bros.' ( Jack and Alf) my father used to trade with them. Down the bottom of Hawthorn road near College Road juction, and sometimes on our way from/to School, we would walk past a building with a large yard, and we would peer through a fence gap, and see a 'grounded Spitfire' partially covered over. I've since learned that this was the Air Cadets training place (I heard from the son / daughter of the man that ran this school) At the top of Hawthorn road near the cross roads with kingstanding road, the Blue and yellow corporation buses would pull in for a break. Mixed with the diesel fumes was always a strange sweat smell of vanilla--could never work out what it was (nearby Icecream maker ?) but also the chip shop smell was always prominent. My brother was once sent to buy a loaf of bread, and came back with a potted pansy flower instead saying--they have no bread left, so I bought you this mom---money was short then, but she did smile and thanked him. Just a few remoniscenses--hope it jogged some recollections for you--good luck.

Rfer		25-Mar-2012 16:18
D Beauvoisin-In case you haven't heard, there are websites for old pubs in and around Brum, just google those words and you should find something. also--I'm sure that Walsall has it's own 'History' groups --or maybe town hall departments that can help or advise you. I found out similar info for Aldridge that way.

Derek Wickett		24-Mar-2012 11:34
What a great site,I must thank the late Kieth Berry for all the hard work he must have put in to this,I lived in Enderby road,Perry common,from 1949 until i got married in 1968,Some of these photos take me right back,The onion fair ,Hawthorn road,and many more i remember well,Would love to here from anyone that remembers my me from Perry common or Hstings road school,Now living in cyprus,Wish i could go back to my young days,,,,,,,my e-mail,,,,, stephanis@live.com

D Beauvoisin		16-Mar-2012 15:08
Looking for any pictures of the Kings Arms in Walsall from the 1940's to 1960. Also any lists of the landlords during that time.

Norman Ward		13-Mar-2012 09:18
Is there anyone who went to Birchfield Rd.School in the 1950's that maybe would like to share memories of that era I lived on Aldridge Rd.opposite Harris The Cleaners.Does anybody remember Michael Cox and Richard Islip Please contact me on vanguardformby@gmail.com

Norman Ward		13-Mar-2012 00:13
Isthere anyone out there that remembers my fathers factory in Perry Barr in the 1950s, It was named Pinnacle Tools on the Aldridge Rd,? I went to Birchfield Rd. school at this time and would love to her from anybody that wishes to go down memory lane Please contact me

Norman Ward		13-Mar-2012 00:12
Isthere anyone out there that remembers my fathers factory in Perry Barr in the 1950s, It was named Pinnacle Tools on the Aldridge Rd,? I went to Birchfield Rd. school at this time and would love to her from anybody that wishes to go down memory lane Please contact me

Jeanette Vickers (nee) Newton		01-Mar-2012 11:05
wHAT A WONDERFUL SELECTION OF PHOTO'S I WAS BORN IN KINGSTANDING BIRMINGHAM 1941LEFT WHEN I WAS 8 AND LIVE IN AUSTRALIA I AM DOING A BOOK FOR MY GRANDCHILDREN DOES ANYONE HAVE ANY INFO ABOUT REG & LILLIAN NEWTON WHO WERE MY FATHER & MOTHER ANY RELATIVES OUT THERE?

Jeanette Vickers (nee) Newton		01-Mar-2012 11:04
wHAT A WONDERFUL SELECTION OF PHOTO'S I WAS BORN IN KINGSTANDING BIRMINGHAM 1941LEFT WHEN I WAS 8 AND LIVE IN AUSTRALIA I AM DOING A BOOK FOR MY GRANDCHILDREN DOES ANYONE HAVE ANY INFO ABOUT REG & LILLIAN NEWTON WHO WERE MY FATHER & MOTHER ANY RELATIVES OUT THERE?

Maureeen Morris nee Darkes		26-Feb-2012 07:12
are there any photo of the back to back houses in freeman road nechells please was brought up there, now live in Wales, i know there is a polic station there now, but would love to see an old photo thank you

cathy		25-Feb-2012 10:45
any phothos of lichfield rd , montague st ,, lived there in early 60,s ,, although born in south rd handsworth,, live in scotland now, still a brummie girl at heart, and never lost my accent,, fab website

Rfer.		22-Feb-2012 22:04
EM--just like to comment that several of my family worked for Phillips and Hercules cycles. They kindly brought me home a new bike for my birthday--handle bars one day--saddle the next etc etc.Unfortunately--it became a 'Hercuphillips', but we made it all fit with a hammer. In the early 60's, I helped my brother--(who had just left the Army)deliver a truck load of Vespa Scooters ( collected from the docks in the South West) to all over the North of England. We wound up at the docks in Goole--Yorks. On the quayside, in open crates, were strange but modern looking motorcycles with square headlamps---little did we know that---not only were we looking at the future of motorcycling---but the death rattle of the UK's own M/C industry. Say hello to HONDA !

emlyn evans		14-Feb-2012 21:38
Do you have any photographs in your collection of the old motorcycle factories such as Ariel-Selly Oak. Dunelt - Soho. Excelsior - Tyseley. James - Tomey Road, Greet. Norton - Bracebridge Street. Phillips - Rolph Street, Smethwick. Sun - Aston Brook Street. Velocette - Hall Green. There were dozens of other factories of course but the above list were all on the go in the early 60's. Em

emlyn evans		14-Feb-2012 21:37
Do you have any photographs in your collection of the old motorcycle factories such as Ariel-Selly Oak. Dunelt - Soho. Excelsior - Tyseley. James - Tomey Road, Greet. Norton - Bracebridge Street. Phillips - Rolph Street, Smethwick. Sun - Aston Brook Street. Velocette - Hall Green. There were dozens of other factories of course but the above list were all on the go in the early 60's. Em

martin		04-Feb-2012 11:08
This web site is fab just love the memories the pictures evoke lozells road used to work there part time when i was a school boy i was a delivery boy for george masons grocers on one of those bikes with the big basket on the front delivered all over handsworth and lozells every saturday rain or shine 1963 to 1967 later years i became a taxi driver for supreme cabs on the corner villa rd and handsworth rd i new birmingham like the back of my hand bet its not the same now been in scotland for 25 years.

martin		04-Feb-2012 11:07
This web site is fab just love the memories the pictures evoke lozells road used to work there part time when i was a school boy i was a delivery boy for george masons grocers on one of those bikes with the big basket on the front delivered all over handsworth and lozells every saturday rain or shine 1963 to 1967 later years i became a taxi driver for supreme cabs on the corner villa rd and handsworth rd i new birmingham like the back of my hand bet its not the same now been in scotland for 25 years.

Guest		01-Feb-2012 01:00
any one know samatha glaze lozells

John Moore		24-Jan-2012 16:11
I was born in Tower Road Birmingham. Does anyone remember the Cheslin family? That was my mothers family :-)

Sheila james		24-Jan-2012 00:15
Continuation of my message, story to read that Keith passed away two years ago. I hope that this site will remain and that people will continue to palace their comments, I will certainly be informing people that I know about this site as I know they will be interested to view these wonderful old photographs. ..

Guest		24-Jan-2012 00:07
Just like many others I have just stumbled over these amazing pictures of old Birmingham. I came to Birmingham in 1960 when my parents came down from the north of England for work. I was 12 years old at the time but can clearly remember the old pictures of birchfield road and particular Chain walk and Freer Road as we lived on both these roads. I went to Canturbury cross girls school and after leaving school in 1963 went to work in Atkins chemist on heathfield road (known as J Doctors) I earned as a fifteen year old �3/17/6d. I was sad to read that The arcixt

Graham Packer		15-Jan-2012 20:11
Having spent the first 10 years of my life in Nechells (52-63) the site bought back many memories of places that my dad took me to. What a marvellous collection. I have lived in the uSA for the last 33 years and I enjoy showing my spoilt brat kids how we grew up. Thanks to all involved for this site.

Dave		23-Nov-2011 14:17
Ive enjoyed looking through Keiths photos and only after viewing them did I learn of his sad death... A quick question to anyone who may know, how long are these photos gonna be on this site for? Is Keiths subscription to PBase about to expire anytime soon?

A. Drew		14-Nov-2011 11:33
What a wonderful resource. I spent many happy hours as a child with my Great Aunt Ciss (Eleanor May Ollis) who owned a little shop in or near Ryder Street which sold sweets as well as many other groceries. She and her brother, John, lived in Ryder Street most of their lives well into their retirement leaving only when the area was being redeveloped. This has brought back many happy memories.

Bernard Allen		09-Nov-2011 17:41
My firm "Freeman & Ward" made the original Christmas Crackers for Birmingham Christmas decorations 60s/70s (Re photos of New Street in the 80s

Bernard Alen		04-Nov-2011 18:04
I was born in lee Crescent. I have photos of the side that is still there, where the orphanage was but not the other side where I lived and is no longer there , does anybody have any

Juliann Rees		16-Oct-2011 12:47
hi does anyone know where i can buy an old photograph of william edward street in birmingham.Also old photos of st Martins flats in Highgate birmingham from 1950's or 1960's.In those days Highgate was known as derit end.My mom use to live in st Martins flats as a child and her great grandmother sarah Bott use to live in william edward street in 1950's.Thought it would be a great christmas present for her if i could get hold of a few photos of each stree and have them framed for christmas.Thanks Juliann.

Mark Bourne		10-Sep-2011 04:24
Hi, I am looking for pictures of "Felton's" Iron Mongers located on the parade...would have been demolished in the 1960s? Was in my mom's family for generations. Thanks, Mark

80's		24-Aug-2011 20:39
Please, does anyone have any photos of either Northfield shops or Birmingham city centre shops in the late 70's-mid 80's?

Knowles 1964		12-Aug-2011 15:56
i'm looking to find any photo's of the school playing fields in green lanes wylde green which is now henley close i used to play in the school football team there when we won the league in 1974 i was 10 years old if anyone can help please e-mail me davidknowles610@hotmail.com

Knowles 1964		12-Aug-2011 15:53
i'm looking to find any photo's of the school playing fields in green lanes wylde green which is now henley close i used to play in the school football team there when we won the league in 1974 i was 10 years old if anyone can help please e-mail me

Guest		12-Aug-2011 15:10
This site has got my memory racing, can anyone remember Hartleys sweet shop in Wilton street this is great i'm on a wonderful trip down memory lane

Peter Cairns		12-Aug-2011 15:05
I used to live in 183 Wilton street until with my family in nan's house. I remember all of these shops, does anyone remember Roadleys toy shop on Lozells road? I can also remember 6ways being built.

Guest		09-Aug-2011 01:12
Sorry to type this but has Keith Berry passed away?

Rfer		21-Jul-2011 20:36
Trying to contact PBase directly seems to be very difficult if not impossible. Apparently you can 'Snail Mail' a message to a post box. As usual, none of the FAQS relate to 'your' query.I'm only an occasional computer user with limited knowledge for basic stuff, but it looks like the Keith Berry collection is safe and copies available. Click on PBase and see if you can decipher the process for buying. There seems to be about 20 other PBase sights if you google the name--a bit confusing. It may be just me, but this site reminds me of a travelling bus without a driver, Who's in control ? how do you get a message or enqiry accross. eg. Why have they not headed this page with a memorium to Keith Berry, who according to a posting 2 years ago,by someone who stated that she was a relation or close friend, he had died the year before that, after a short illness. I have repeatedly updated these facts for the benefit of those who keep posting their appreciation directly to Keith--not knowing of his demise. They must wonder why he dosen't answer their enquiries. A message on here a couple of weeks ago, asked me to contact a Great Barr newspaper regarding this ?? I did but there was no answer--so i left a message, nobody called back. --?? Rfer

Mike Brough		20-Jul-2011 17:31
Wonderful pictures! Wish I had kept more of my 1950s pictures. Does Rfer know whether these have been secured for posterity? It would be awfully sad if they were lost -- I don't know much about PBase. Mike Brough

Rose		18-Jul-2011 18:35
Hi Keith, i lived at 154 Freer Rd in the 60's. I knew Mrs Jones at the corner shop very well i also remember your grandad he threatened to cut my dogs tail off if he kept on jumping through his hedge (jokingly.) Looking at the photo's brings back a lot of happy memories.

Mike D.		18-Jul-2011 14:36
Thanks so much for posting these. These are all areas from my childhood and looking through the pics brought back a lot of happy memories - also made me a bit sad that so much of my past has gone now...

Pauline Lambert (Flynn)		13-Jul-2011 22:32
I came accross this site by accident looking for some old flats called St Martins in Highgate. My sister and I have just spent a couple of hours going down memory lane and have not looked at half of them yet. These photos have bought memories long forgotten to life and must be giving a lot of pleasure to a lot of people. It would be lovely if all these were in print in a book to purchase.

Pauline Lambert (Flynn)		13-Jul-2011 22:32
I came accross this site by accident looking for some old flats called St Martins in Highgate. My sister and I have just spent a couple of hours going down memory lane and have not looked at half of them yet. These photos have bought memories long forgotten to life and must be giving a lot of pleasure to a lot of people. It would be lovely if all these were in print in a book to purchase.

Pauline Lambert (Flynn)		13-Jul-2011 22:32
I came accross this site by accident looking for some old flats called St Martins in Highgate. My sister and I have just spent a couple of hours going down memory lane and have not looked at half of them yet. These photos have bought memories long forgotten to life and must be giving a lot of pleasure to a lot of people. It would be lovely if all these were in print in a book to purchase.

Pauline Lambert (Flynn)		13-Jul-2011 22:31
I came accross this site by accident looking for some old flats called St Martins in Highgate. My sister and I have just spent a couple of hours going down memory lane and have not looked at half of them yet. These photos have bought memories long forgotten to life and must be giving a lot of pleasure to a lot of people. It would be lovely if all these were in print in a book to purchase.

Richard		12-Jul-2011 15:48
How do I purchase photos from this site as there is one of me back in Walsall 1980

Sue		07-Jul-2011 16:23
What a brilliant legacy, brings back many memories. Such lovely photos.

Charlotte Hart		04-Jul-2011 10:00
Rfer, please can you call Charlotte Hart at the Great Barr Observer on 0121 355 6061. Many thanks

Rfer		02-Jul-2011 21:29
TO ALL NEW 'COMMENTER'S' SAD TO INFORM, BUT KEITH BERRY DIED TWO YEARS AGO, AS I STATED ON FEBRUARY 9TH entry. THIS IS A FANTASTIC LEGACY HE HAS LEFT BEHIND FOR ALL TO ENJOY. Rfer.

Keith		29-Jun-2011 15:10
We are looking up the Family Tree and wondering if anyone would know anything about Ada Toye who was born 1877 in Aston Birmingham and died in 1929, We are trying to find out if she had any brothers or sisters, Her Mother was Carolane, we think Caroline was born in 1854 and she married William Toye.

Guest		28-Jun-2011 17:54
hi keith just been looking at your lovly collection of photos how many pairs of boots did you get through great stuff i am looking for a photo of the manor pub on the corner of wainwright st and portland st the pub used to have a horse trough by the front my brother and me used to float match box's in it till the horses come to it my grandmother kept a coffee house just below at 79 lichfield road. i wrote my autobiography last year and was trying to get photo of this pub with the horse trough out but no luck. all the best keith bill wintle.

Shorty		20-Jun-2011 17:14
Mount street park shocking picture you see how all those swings have been rapped it was something we use to do as kids i broke my arm doing it big memories :)))

Siobhan Fanning		19-Jun-2011 21:40
Hi, this is very interesting-well done, doing family tracing and to confirm if this lady is was my granmother, maybe some can help me, the last address that i have for my this lady/ my granmother is 57 Doidge Road, Birmingham23, she died in 1984. According to the electrol the people living there now are living there since 1986 but i am not having any luck getting in contact with them. The surname is O'Connor, Bishop or Fanning may also have been used, she was born in Ireland, her firsf name was Mary, thanks Siobhan.

alec crook		15-Jun-2011 15:50
Just found this site by accident.Lived in benson rd maypole between 1935 and 1962.Worked in Colmore Row from 1951 till 1959,found the city centre pics very memorable.Has anyone pics of the Kings Heath are?

effildIncitle		11-Jun-2011 12:33
You certainly deserve a round of applause for your post and more specifically, your blog in general. Very high quality material

effildIncitle		11-Jun-2011 12:29
You certainly have some agreeable opinions and views. Your blog provides a fresh look at the subject.

effildIncitle		11-Jun-2011 12:29
Very Interesting Information! Thank You For Thi Blog!

effildIncitle		11-Jun-2011 12:29
I just sent this post to a bunch of my friends as I agree with most of what you�re saying here and the way you�ve presented it is awesome.

vera		05-Jun-2011 10:16
Vera Brenda May are you still in Birmingham 26th 1961 50years

patricia Lis		04-Jun-2011 14:15
I have just come across you site by chance, iwent to live in b'ham from manchester in 1958 first i worked for a larger building firm in handsworth then from there i moved to harbourne and worked for f deeley on the high st then i wnet to live on broad street and went to work for Louis Goldberg on gas street. your site brings back many happy memories sitting on the back of the factory eating lunch while the tus came down to collect goods from the back of the warehouses,from there i moved to nottingham where i still live my name then was pat dean

Martyn/Trish		27-May-2011 20:29
Please can any one help we are looking for a Mr Reg (Reginald) Hall or family, We have just found out that in 1967 he lived in Oundle Road Kingstanding Birmingham, Reg lived there with his mom and dad. He had a sister called Carole but she got married and we don't know her married name,(Hall was Carole's maiden name) We think Reginald may have had to use a wheelchair. We believe their parents were called Fredrick and Florence, Reg was born around 1943 and Carole was born around 1947, Any information would be appreciated, We have been looking for 25 years. UPDATED- Today we have been to Birmingham Archives and we know Reginald Hall lived there with a Florence Hall who we think was his mom To 1996/1997, We would like to get in touch with their neighnours a Doreen Quinn and a Linda Williams who may still live in Oundle Road, Birmingham Archives records only go up to 2001 and according to the records they still lived there then. We are still looking for Carole Hall as we couldn't find any information about her.

martyn/trish		24-May-2011 11:58
We are looking for a Reg (reginald) Hall who lived in the kingstanding area of Birmingham in 1967 or his sister and their families, We think it was Oundle road, if you lived around there in 1967 and could help please contact us, Thanks

Vera		19-May-2011 22:26
Marie Wigley did you know Brenda May she lived in Holte Road b/ham 1961

VERA		15-May-2011 09:19
Brenda May hope you ar still around my BRIDES MAID 1960 AT WITTON CHURCH

VERA		15-May-2011 09:16
Brenda May hope you ar still around my BRIDES MAID 1960 AT WITTON CHURCH

Andrew Rogers		09-May-2011 20:34
Last year I purchased a 1960 Clipper Blue Morris Minor convertible 916 DOE.It was origonaly supplied by Leslie Mathews a Birmingham Morris dealership .Does anybody know anything about either the car or the dealership .Any information would be most welcolme .

Andrew Rogers		09-May-2011 20:34
Last year I purchased a 1960 Clipper Blue Morris Minor convertible 916 DOE.It was origonaly supplied by Leslie Mathews a Birmingham Morris dealership .Does anybody know anything about either the car or the dealership .Any information would be most welcolme .

golightly		08-May-2011 23:04
DONALD--I have just sent an enquiry of my own about Aldridge--to one of the many history websites for that town. If you just google Aldridge History you will find many options. I'm sure you will get enthusiatic help from them for your query. golightly.

Donald		07-May-2011 00:52
Beautiful Pictures. My Grandfather William Jennings owned a Factory here in 1910 called Wilfred & Co Ltd making things out of Aluminum. He left after WWI in 1919 coming to the USA. He lived in Aldridge riding the former train into Nechells. Does Mount St Mills mean anything. My Dad Donald Jennings was Born in Aldridge. Can anyone suggest a way to find out more on the Factory?

DEsi C		21-Apr-2011 20:49
You don't realise just how many warm memories you have till you look through a wonderful collection like this. So many memories revived particularly of my schooldays as an immigrant in Aston, and many other parts too. By the way the Building on Aston Rd that became a radio stantion was originally Alpha House, the old ATV TV studios, Crossroads was originally made there

marie wigley		11-Apr-2011 11:50
i lived at 67 holte road marie wigley

Guest		01-Apr-2011 17:27
does any one remeber john atkinson aka action man

Guest		29-Mar-2011 20:34
i lived on the boat shown in the Left corner, 'Beech'. I remember walking through the car park to the library where i worked. 1977-1979, this is just how i remember it!

Guest		24-Mar-2011 19:14
what a great set of photos from old birmingham well done photos from a fine city

Denise Hodon		24-Mar-2011 15:28
I lived in Holte Road, my grandad was brought up in a back house in Lichfield Road, my grandmother lived as a child in Chester Street. It was great looking through the photos, would have been wonderful if there had been any photos of Lichfield Road or Chester Street

Denise Hodon		24-Mar-2011 15:27
I lived in Holte Road, my grandad was brought up in a back house in Lichfield Road, my grandmother lived as a child in Chester Street. It was great looking through the photos, would have been wonderful if there had been any photos of Lichfield Road or Chester Street

Denise Hodon		24-Mar-2011 15:27
I lived in Holte Road, my grandad was brought up in a back house in Lichfield Road, my grandmother lived as a child in Chester Street. It was great looking through the photos, would have been wonderful if there had been any photos of Lichfield Road or Chester Street

suzanne		22-Mar-2011 15:48
My Mother in law is looking for information on her father and Grandfather Senior George William Archer and Juinor. They resided at Orchard rd Erdington and we believe owned a grocers shop. She was born there and then returned to Scotland and is desperate to find out anything at all. regards

suzanne		22-Mar-2011 15:48
My Mother in law is looking for information on her father and Grandfather Senior George William Archer and Juinor. They resided at Orchard rd Erdington and we believe owned a grocers shop. She was born there and then returned to Scotland and is desperate to find out anything at all. regards

Jay		19-Mar-2011 10:29
Such amazing photos.I lived in Villa St op Vine pub from 1945.I would love to see some pictures of villa st,also,The House That Jack Built in Newtown Row if anyone has any.jayricebristol@gmail.com.

Jay		19-Mar-2011 10:29
Such amazing photos.I lived in Villa St op Vine pub from 1945.I would love to see some pictures of villa st,also,The House That Jack Built in Newtown Row if anyone has any.jayricebristol@gmail.com.

john ellis		04-Mar-2011 16:57
i used to knock about around ryder street,we used to go to kyrle hall 1945 -52 playing cricket on the roof,frankie ryder lived in ryder street,he was a bit older than us.ilived in buck street.we never had a lot in those days.but what we did have was respect for our peers.happy days,john ellis

karin robertson		24-Feb-2011 22:04
hi there, do you remember the iron horse pub in birmingham town centre. i believe it used to be on station street. nobody seems to remember it. regards, karin robertson

Derek		24-Feb-2011 17:28
As a few people have already said, I only came upon this wonderful site whilst looking to google Trinity Road! First of all I was very sorry to hear the creator of the site, Mr Keith Berry, has sadly passed over.......RIP Keith and my condolences to his family. I was brought up in Aston from 55-75 and Aston Park was my playground! I'm afraid I was a bit of a lad in those days so I am particularly sorry to anyone I may have upset?! They were generally happy times growing up as a kid and using a lot of the shops in the photos of Witton Road. I also worked at Webbs Lawnmowers in Electric Ave. My best wishes to all you ex and present locals of Aston and Witton. Again many thanks for transporting me back to the past! Derek B.

Guest		24-Feb-2011 17:05
What a wonderful site; just sorry I did not find it while Keith was still alive. I have spent time not only looking at the photos but also at the previous posts and I came across one from a Jean Henson (now living in Canada)in Dec 2007. I hope you still read these Jean as I too am a great neice of the Devey family (John the Villa captain) and would be very interested to hear from you and to know which of the brothers or sister was your grandfather/grandmother. Alfred was mine. According to the 1901 census (my Grandfather was 6) the family were living at 34 Church Street! Later the Devey family were also involved in the cinemas running Saturday films for youngsters and if they didn't have a penny they could pay with glass jam jars! They also had an interest in the trams that ran in Birmingham. I started my teaching career at Stockland Green in the late 70s living in Erdington. What an evocative collection. If you do read this Jean or anyone else with an interest in the Deveys my email is climbing_mountains@hotmail.com Jane Newton

Paul Hardy		12-Feb-2011 20:54
Brilliant pictures and wonderful memories. Anybody who might be interested, my name is Paul. I am one of the Hardy boys renowned for being rebals in Lozells during the early 70's. We lived in Wilton St with Dad (Ron), Mum (Lil), Carol (Sis), Pete & Robert (Bros). We also had three dogs. Incidentaly, ours was the last slum to be bulldozed in 79. Best wishes to anyone who remembers us - and I'm pleased you survived our antics!

Guest		10-Feb-2011 14:04
I only stumbled across this site today and I love all the piccies it takes me back to my childhood. So sad to hear Keith died, we should all try to keep this going and add more photos and comments if we can.

Rfer		09-Feb-2011 23:20
PLEASE NOTE--THAT MR KEITH BERRY, THE CREATOR OF THIS VALUABLE PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION--PASSED AWAY TWO YEARS AGO--I THOUGHT THAT THOSE NEW TO THIS SITE , SHOULD BE INFORMED. (RFER)

mr lakha		04-Feb-2011 20:24
thank you very much for these wonderful pictures, they really do bring back a lot of memories.

shana sharbi		04-Feb-2011 10:06
Thank you SO much for these amazing photos!! I grew up in Bearwood, and so especially loved the ones of Bearwood Rd - if you have any more please do put them onto your amazing website!! I remember a toyshop called Edwards I used to go to. thanks so much once again.

CHRIS LEGGE		02-Feb-2011 20:11
I JUST LOVE YOUR PHOTOS I HAVE A FACINATION FOR OLD BUILDINGS ESPECIALLY THISE BUILT AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY. I TAKE LOTS OF PHOTOS FROM MY TRAIN JOUNEYS AND LOVE THE OLD FACTORIES THAT RUN UP TO THE SIDE OF RAILWAYS. I KNOW THAT ONE DAY THEY WILL DEMOLISH IT ALL SO TO SAVE THESE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS IS JUST GREAT. I HOPE YOU DONT MIND BUT I WANT TO DRAW THESE BUILDINGS IN PEN AND INK AND SOME DAY I WILL CREATE A WEB SITE SUCH AS YOURS KEEP UP THYE GOOD WORK. YOUR PHOTIS ARE BOTH FAB AND VERY ARTISTIC CHRIS LEGGE

Linda Fenney		24-Jan-2011 21:19
Hi my name is Linda, I wanted to tell you what I know about the two photos you have on this site re Ryder Street. The 1st one says Ryder Street and that one is right, that end of Ryder Street was the city end, but the 2nd photo says Near Ryder Street, that is wrong, it IS also Ryder Street, the oposite end. It led to a staggered junction where across that junction was Lawrence Street. We lived at 6 back of 58 Ryder Street in 1959 to 1964.Where your person is standing in the photo is directly next to our entry.

Guest		22-Jan-2011 16:34
Hi all can anyone please help me, My nan was born at heathfield road 3rd march 1941 I am trying to put together a little DVD for her 70th could and cant really find many pics or info so would appreciate if anyone could help me, my nans a lovely old lady and I know making her a dvd of her life will make her day. Shes also a great villa fan and spent many times going to watch with her dad so anything to do with the villa would be great to. ooo and a old map of birmingham would be nice to lol... anyone with any pic etc please email smith.lee34@sky.com thank u all.

Guest		05-Jan-2011 20:01
i know the hatfields of yardley wood , kevin and tony .kevin still lives in yardley wood not sure where tony lives.

ron coles		27-Nov-2010 15:13
To Gary Cooper did you know Albert Evans went to Gower St School about same age as you Lived in Trinity rd dad was a watch maker or repairer roncoles44@yahoo.co.uk I lived in wilson Rd off Birchfield Rd am now 75 years young my brother alan was a ehgraver at Lancasters in jewelry quarter

gary e cooper		24-Nov-2010 23:35
Born 1936 and raised in Lozells,went to Gower St, Senior school. have been in living in the U.S. the last 40 odd years, worked as an Hand Engraver, Diesinker, in the Jewellery District, same thing in N.Y.City. any one out there, I knew, would love to hear from you.

gary e cooper		24-Nov-2010 23:34
Born 1936 and raised in Lozells,went to Gower St, Senior school. have been in living in the U.S. the last 40 odd years, worked as an Hand Engraver, Diesinker, in the Jewellery District, same thing in N.Y.City. any one out there, I knew, would love to hear from you.

Ron Coles		20-Nov-2010 11:15
To Jean Henson I lived in Wilson Rd From 1945 to 1959 and remember Warrens Butchers and Atkinsons chemist well My Email is roncoles44@yahoo.co.uk hope to here from you I bet Dr Pike was your doctor Ron.

JOHN COX		16-Nov-2010 11:43
Ref: photo of Warstone Lane, my mother and her business partner were still running William Edge & Co., paper and twine merchants, when the 1978 photo was taken. The locality looks far more attractive today with the diversity of businesses and excellent upkeep of the buildings. What a wonderful record the whole site is.

Rfer.		09-Nov-2010 00:06
I'd just like to point out to those who aren't aware--the Great photographer responsible for this site and it's contents--Keith Berry--is no longer with us. Sadly, he passed away on January 25th 2009. Rfer.

Jerry Morgan		04-Nov-2010 16:27
What a wonderful selection of fotos, brought back a many memories. I lived in Sandwell Road Handsworth - on the dual carriageway. The color foto of Rookery Road really brought back a memory. My Sister bought an Armstrong cycle from there with a Sturmey-Archer 3speed. She rode it home up (literally up) Westbourne Road as I walked alongside. She asked me 'what gear should I be in?' I said 'top' (highest - although I hadn't a clue)which was #1. How she ever got up there in that gear I just do not know but she did. Happy days!

David Smith		02-Nov-2010 11:03
Dave Smith Great photos. I was born 1942 in Doidge road Erdington & spent most of my time in Brookvale park either fishing, rowing, & even playing bowls! Looking at the recent pics of the park it looks like it`s been spoilt. I would like to trace Valerie Townsend who used to hang out in the cafe(Eastgates?) next to the Brookvale pub, just to apologise for being such a jerk back in the early 60`s. I now live in the n/e & hate going back to Brum, it just seems to have lost the magic :-( astie771@hotmail.co.uk

David Weaver		28-Oct-2010 01:19
Teardrops falling down my face, oh what a sight to see, an Aston Lad of seventy seven it's the ugly face of me. There's no more grime, nor lots of smoke, in the place I now call home just kangaroos and parrots but the memories are well sown. I've walked your bluestone pavements, snogged in entries dim, felt the fear from Hitler's bombs but we didn't give it in. Thanks for all your photo's they tell a tale well said, only the old remember and soon we'll all be dead. Thanks for the memories.

Noel Davies		24-Oct-2010 07:35
What a wonderful collection of photographs. Brought back some memories.

Val Talbot		22-Oct-2010 15:27
Wow, you have some fantastic photo's here. Took me right back. well done.

charlene		16-Oct-2010 22:05
hello there have you got any pics of adam's street, winsor street, coleman street, willis street, it would be great if you could upload these or show me where i could go to have a look it would make my nans day if i could show her the old photos.

susan		11-Oct-2010 18:38
I have very much enjoyed looking at thses photos, I was born in Loveday St and found this site by chance. Fabulous.

retep		04-Oct-2010 09:31
A wonderful gallery of photographs showing in graphic detail the slow demise of what was once a proud and industrious city, the workshop of the world.. my beloved Birmingham.

malcolm hunnisett		21-Sep-2010 20:13
Trying to find any information on William Smith, and his wife Jane Walmsley, who were living at 1, Back Great Russell Street, Birmingham at the turn of the last century. Anybody help? Any idea where to find a photo of the area?

pamela Ford		30-Aug-2010 21:20
My grandad worked his whole life at the Dunlop factory,(1945-80ish) he was a great singer in the Social Club there. Al Ford he lived in Chester road had 3 sond Tom Peter & micheal. I am his grand daughter and would love a photo of him. Does anyone remember him?

Rfer		26-Aug-2010 22:14
Hello Rod (Brigham), I envy your courage and dedication to biking. I bought an old Triumph Cub a few years ago, first bike in 30yrs. Sadly it spent more time in the garage being polished and admired, than on the road. I lost my bottle see. I only went on the road a couple of times, and the traffic being so heavy, I felt very vulnerable and missed the metal cage that a car provides, so I flogged it. There has been quite a lot of accidents here---many fatal, were middle aged men, said to be trying to regain their youthful biking days, have bought very powerful modern bikes,took too many risks, and paid a high personal price. I don't expect you have a problem with crowded roads where you are? ---regards --Rfer.

Mike		14-Aug-2010 15:25
Hello Keith, I used to live at 115 Wellhead lane in Perry Barr. Our pavement was made of the bricks (maltese cross design)like the one on page 6 of your scans. I still have one of the bricks, I use it as a door stop, I joined the Navy in 74 and remained in Portsmouth. My house has now been turned into a carpark for the Uni, but the memories remain. What a great website ..Thank you Mike

Gary		13-Aug-2010 15:43
Gary in Devon I am just starting out on the family history trail and this site really adds life to an otherwise daunting paper trail. Does anyone remember the Hatfields of Yardley Wood ? Grandad Jack was the green keeper at the social club in Yardley Wood in the 60's and my uncles Arthur, Trevor, Ernie and my Mum Doreen all lived there in Cleeve Rd. just of school road.

R Brigham		29-Jul-2010 23:58
Hi Rfer, how nice to hear from you. Yes I,m sure we were bying our motorbikes from the same Grays shop. They were somewhere near Perry Barr and also had a shop at Shirley. Yes you are right about the quality of the pubs they built in England, they all had some style about them,something they never achieved out here in Aussie. My early days of motorcycling stuck with me and I still ride to this day, currently on a Triumph,as I approach my 70,s. all the best for now Rod Brigham

Rfer		21-Jul-2010 21:54
Hello Rod---lot's of Ozzie-Brummies on here. Theres 2 or 3 things you mentioned in your posting that rings a bell. I was brought up mostly in the north Birmingham area ie. Kingstanding--Great/Perry Barr--New Oscott--etc, etc -Nine houses and severn schools altogether. Why we moved so often within such a small area I've never found out(but I could guess). The oldman polished the bars with his sleeves many-a-time in the Golden Hind, usually after he had just done some decent deals at the Measham car sales auction. What fantastic pubs they built between the wars, like small manor houses, in mock Tudor,Scotish Baronial etc. To-day--sadly, all we hear is of pubs closing, at about one a day in Britain, what the hell does it all mean ? UNBELIEVABLE ! GRAYS Motorcycles?? can that possibly be the same company that I bought MY first Motorbike from ? Difference is---By 1955, the family had moved to Bristol, where GRAYS had a large showroom. I bought myself a second hand Ariel 500cc twin, in excellent condition---all traditional Maroon and lots of chrome, with cream hide double seat, crash bar and twin spots-WOW. I was 18, and I'd never ridden a motorbike before, and with NO experience, I rode the thing home(about 12 miles) It frightened the proverbial out of me. I have many relations still in Brum, although most of em have moved out to the perimiter now. It's nice to hear ex-pats making trips back home now and again---call of our roots eh? take care, Rfer.

Mrs P Mckeown Cheshire		20-Jul-2010 13:57
I have a Half Pint pot with a barley design on the side made in b/mingham potteries,address K D Stone Dale End Birmingham. it has a gold stamp on the side that says Locomotive In Queen Victories Reign. any I dea How old it will be ..ever heard of the potteries? Mrs P Mckeown Cheshire

Rfer		16-Jul-2010 01:05
Hello everyone---just found this great site- Does anyone remember the Music Store--Murdoch and Sons, of Corporation St. Brum ? I'm told they were in business from around 1880 to 1970. My grandfather was a violin maker etc, and his instruments were on sale at Murdochs Store. I'm hoping to find a photo--advert--or any printed image or information about them at all.

Rod Brigham		14-Jul-2010 11:13
I,m a new visitor to this site( see the following item) and have just realised that Keith is no longer with us.Apologies if I have offended anyone.I was born in Webster St. in 1943 and well remember the local pub, The Wagon and Horses.I was born in number 13,but I don,t think it was especially unlucky.I remember Newtown Row and the trams. Later I did my apprenticeship in a shopfitting company at Perry Barr on Aldridge Rd.near the canal called Cadwallader Ltd.Six of the best years of my life. I rode a variety of motorbikes which I bought from Grays,in Perry Barr. I later worked as a part time barman at a pub called The Golden Hind at Great Barr.My first real girlfriend was a girl named Linda, who lived in Greenwood Place, Kingstanding. Oh happy days.

Rod Brigham		14-Jul-2010 10:44
Hi Keith,how nice to see someone keeping a history of Brum. My name is Rod and I was born in Aston. When I was four in 1947 we moved up to Kingstanding where we stayed until I finished my apprenticeship in 1964 and then moved to Kings Norton. I then emigrated to Australia where I have lived ever since. I loved Kingstanding and the suburbs around it, Sutton Coldfield, Perry Barr etc and never miss the opportunity to visit the old areas whnever I come over for holidays. I loved the picture of your old Velocette as I still ride motorbikes and have a special interest in vintage british bikes. Nice talking to you,

Rob Sutton		18-Jun-2010 08:04
What a great set of pictures. I lived in Handsworth Wood and we used to shop at College Road and Coopers Road. I used to buy Airfix kits from the Post Office where they hung on the wall just inside the door. I now live on the Moor Pool Estate and would be very interested if there are any old pictures anyone has to add to our collection on our website www.moorpool.com . Keep up the good work!

Julia Henderson		15-Jun-2010 22:20
Could anyone help me, I am trying to locate where summerhill children's homes were, in Birmingham. My uncle and my mum were put in there when my grandmother died in 1942, I am trying to trace my family history, and if I could find out where they were located I could probably find the registers in the library, and find out why they were put into the home. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you

Guest		09-Jun-2010 15:34
M.REEVES I LIVED IN A BACK HOUSE IN GRACE RD SPARKBROOK FROM 1950-1964.I WENT TO MONTGOMERY ST SCHOOL AT THE BOTTOM OF OUR RD.AT THE TOP ON THE CORNER WAS A OPEN ALL HOURS TYPE SHOP.WHEN I LEFT SCHOOL (WHICH WAS GOLDEN HILLOCK RD)I WENT TO WORK AT BSA SMALL HEATH AS A APRENTICE.WE WERE POOR BUT HAPPY WOULD LIKE TO HEAR ABOUT ANYONE ELSE FROM THAT NEIGHBOURHOOD.

JEANIE		18-May-2010 02:11
CAN ANYONE REMEMBER THE WALTON FAMILY, MOTHER-MARGARET, FATHER-WILLIAM, THERE WERE 5 or 6 CHILDREN, NAMED SHIRLEY,DAVID, JOHN ECT... OF (KING)EDWARD STREET(OR ROAD),LADYWOOD..AROUND MID TO LATE 1960s, THINK THEY MOVED ON UP TO NECHELLS.ALSO CAROL NORMAN I WOULD BE VERY GRATEFULL FOR ANY INFORMATION AT ALL, AS I'M TRYING TO BUILD A FAMILY TREE xxx

Guest		07-May-2010 11:28
IAN PEMBER, I am down under but was brought up in Brum or as they used to say dragged up. We have been back to Brum many time's but to see these photo's really grabed at the heart strings. Finaly weren't we a bloody happy lot then as kids growing up in Brum.

Llinos Rainbow		30-Apr-2010 13:41
We are currently looking at a History topic called "What was it like to live here in the past?" at Foundry Primary school in Winson Green. I would really appreciate pictures of the area surrounding the school.

Llinos Rainbow		30-Apr-2010 13:41
We are currently looking at a History topic called "What was it like to live here in the past?" at Foundry Primary school in Winson Green. I would really appreciate pictures of the area surrounding the school.

Pat Birch		02-Mar-2010 23:37
My husband and I are Birmingham born and bread we moved to Bromsgrove 1964 where our children were born and raised until just after starting shool age when we moved to Australia our cildren went to Bronsgrove Church of England school,anyone with any pics of that?,my husband and I grew up in Birmingham just as it is in these pictures so they were all very familiar to us,we have been back to UK over the years and seen the changes and love going to the "gas street basin"who would have thought it could be transformed as it has been. Pat rpenterprises@bigpond.com.au

Paulina		26-Feb-2010 18:58
Does anyone have a picture of Mary Street School, Balsall Heath, Birmingham, taken before it was bombed in 1940 or 1941? It was my first school, Infants part, I guess.

Maureen		14-Feb-2010 20:40
I can be reached at maureen_1957@hotmail.com. I decided to ask on this site as it is so popular, I love this site so much it takes me back so many years and brings back lovely memories.

Maureen		14-Feb-2010 20:38
Does anyone remember Jimmy McGivern, two of his sisters were called Gladys and Muriel, he lived in Aston for awhile, married Agnes, I am his daughter and would like to trace any family members, we lived on George St West when I was young, I lost touch with him many years ago, and although he is now dead I really need info on him. thanks

aaliyah		10-Feb-2010 12:15
hi trudi wuu2

Alision		10-Feb-2010 11:53
im 92 now but i cant remember a lot as i was only 3

Alision		10-Feb-2010 11:53
im 92 now but i cant remember a lot as i was only 3

Alision		10-Feb-2010 11:53
im 92 now but i cant remember a lot as i was only 3

jeffory		10-Feb-2010 11:47
i know yes he good old days

marriana		10-Feb-2010 11:39
i can remeber the old days black and white photos when the bull ring was made i was only 1

trudi		10-Feb-2010 11:39
these pics are old man i would hate to off been born then

trudi		10-Feb-2010 11:39
these pics are old man i would hate to off been born then

Billy-Bob-Bob-Pants		10-Feb-2010 11:36
These pics are KWL lool = }

florence		10-Feb-2010 11:35
these pics are so cool

chelsie		03-Feb-2010 12:09
these pic am from ages ago i dnt rember them not that iw ud im only 12 lata aaliyah

aaliyah		03-Feb-2010 12:08
i love these old memories evan though i wasnt born lol kooli

bob		03-Feb-2010 12:07
these pics are so cool but im to young to rember them lol roflmao

JILL		03-Feb-2010 12:07
I LOVE THEM PHOTOS THEY ARE AWESOME

maxine		03-Feb-2010 12:06
love these pics

Jim		01-Feb-2010 21:57
Loved these old memories. I wished i had the sense to take a few photos myself but when i was a lad we only had a brownie box camera which we kids were not allowed to touch. I remember going to the Birchfield pics to see all the horror films they did and the trams running along the main road. Caught the 29 or 29A bus then changed to the 33 to aston where i worked. Everyone seemed to have a motorbike in those days. I had BSA Bantom first then a Tiger Cub, next an AJS and an old Excelsior. Then i bought my Dominator 99 which lasted me for years. I also had a few more dominators that i used to have fun with. I also had a Garrard Sports sidecar which i loved. There's something about a combination that you had to have to know about. That was a long time ago but i still ride. Memories of Bracebridge St and all round there. Leopold Lazerus steel works and Enots, (Benton and Stone) Went to Birmingham to show my wife and it just wasn't the same. I spent years at the BAI in John Bright St. And the Bull Ring was real Market in the old days. I remember that very large bomb outside the fish market that was used to collect money and the carrier bag seller outside.The Holy Joes on their orange boxes. Great times. Brilliant pictures, thanks.

Sheila		03-Jan-2010 10:54
Wonderful, clear pictures. My Dad was born and grew up in Brum. I now find from the 1911 census that his parents, Arthur & Louisa Corbett, kept the 'Royal George' in Bradford Street at that time. I would like to have a photo of this pub if one exists. Can anyone help?

Richard Lakn-Inzunza		30-Dec-2009 11:12
I was surprised to see the Friends of the Earth Warehouse in Allison Street, the photo must have been taken in about 1983, as the hanging sign was made by myself, (curiously,I made the bracket, my very first attempt at MIG welding, at the Morris Minor Centre, that used to be at The Parade, near Sandpits, and it is still there, together with the badly restored new sign for One Earth Shop.

peter roberts		25-Dec-2009 21:41
would love to see photos of lucas chester street aston my father alex roberts was a spark there for 42 years.also photos of saltley railway station please .peter roberts

bob candelent		24-Dec-2009 18:48
hi i am new to this site and i think its great i come from small heath i lived at 128 carlton road would love to see some pic's around the 60s have some happy memmories

bev		22-Dec-2009 00:39
hi i loved the photos very much but was wandering if anyone has any photos of bedford road in birmingham before the factorys were built right next to brockhouse bridge and the bordesley train station also by the clements pub there were only 12 houses and my paetner would so love to see any photos of this area as his family had to move out when they were being knocked down . also for myself any pics of the coventry road opposite the blues ground of the houses where now stands a mc donalds next to arthur street and mount pleasant . would be so grateful for anything thanks bev.

John Chapman		05-Dec-2009 04:19
I am trying to trace the name and location of a 19century pub in Aston Kept by grandfather also called John Chapman

Catherine McEvoy		21-Nov-2009 19:09
Great photos. I went to Lordswood TEch Grammar school for girls from 1967 on. Wondering is there anyone out their from the same time. I am now living in Ireland since 1977. The photos bring back memories. Well done.

wendy		01-Nov-2009 18:15
Absolutely brilliant, only just found site.Lived in Villa Road and worked in the Jewelery Quarter till 1963 and it brought back memories. Does any one have any recollection or pictures of Leebank before it was developed in particular the junction with Colmore Street the old Leebank House were my great grandfather lived.

Dave Morris		27-Aug-2009 16:41
what a fantastic site , brings back a lot of memories , can anyone help me i am looking for pictures of the old Castle Bromwich Aerodrome ,and am finding it very difficult to find any.

John P		13-Aug-2009 22:59
We are incredibly lucky to have had someone like Keith to give us such a magnificent gift as these images.I could lose myself for hours here...God bless you,Keith!

rod kennedy		01-Aug-2009 22:34
Condolences to all who knew,and loved Keith.I cannot say i,m part of that priveleged group,just priveleged enough to find this wonderful site,giving me the most heartwarming memories of my childhood,and teens.

Guest		13-Jul-2009 06:23
i would also like to add my condolences on hearing of the sad loss of keith....both he and his fantastic photographs will be greatly missed.... lyn harrington.

Mike Davies		11-Jun-2009 10:00
Mike Davies Lived Druids Lane, Maypole Birmingham, in the prefabs until 1959. I am trying to get a copy of an old (aerial ?) photo of the prefab estate of bells Lane that hung in the head masters office ( Mr Pascoe) at the infant/junior school. Can anybody help ?

clive		27-May-2009 17:38
this is xcelnt,i was born there but moved away vry young.this is bringing bak so many memories,thanks

Lisa Kavanagh		12-May-2009 22:42
Hi, I was very sorry to hear the news about Keith this year. He was a very talented photographer and has left a fantastic collection of images for people to enjoy for years to come! I am an interior designer, currently involved in the refurbishment of 2 beautiful old buildings with lots of history in Birmingham. I was lucky enough to stumble across the images of "old Birmingham" on here. I found a small selection of images that I would love to use on these projects to try and keep the memory of old Birmingham alive. Does anyone have any contact details for getting permission to use these images, and means of getting them in high resolution? I have tried emailing Keith's email and contacting PBase but had no luck! I would be extremely grateful if you could contact me as soon as possible on the email address: lisa@kancho.co.uk Many thanks

Amanda Wood		23-Apr-2009 15:15
Thank you Keith for the joy that your photographs have given me and my family.Rest in peace. Condolences to your family. from Amanda

hilary bull nee greathead		19-Apr-2009 14:50
brilliant photos of birmingham.they took me right back to my childhood.my mom and dad ran a pub called the grotto,in camden street,in the early sixties.i would love some info or photos,if anyone has any

hilary bull nee greathead		19-Apr-2009 14:49
brilliant photos of birmingham.they took me right back to my childhood.my mom and dad ran a pub called the grotto,in camden street,in the early sixties.i would love some info or photos,if anyone has any

Michael Sparrow		02-Apr-2009 21:58
A wonderful site I've only just found. I've lived in South America for the last 30 years, but was born in Handsworth in 1948, went to Cherry Orchard Primary School in Handsworth Wood, then when the family moved to Great Barr (near the Scott Arms), I went to KEGS Aston during the 1960s. My maternal grandfather was a clockmaker in the Jewellery District: does anyone have any information about Granfield's watch/clockmakers of Vyse St.? I like to get back to B'ham from time to time and look around, but it's not the same now.

Bob Beattie		27-Mar-2009 19:39
What a wonderful site to come across while I was browsing, this amazing collection is a tribute to Keith and his family. They bring back the old Birmingham that I remember as a boy with the old back to backs and the washhouses, just wonderful Keith, thank you so much and rest in peace.God bless you.

N Ford		21-Mar-2009 13:37
Sorry to hear about Keiths passing,his collection of photographs will give pleasure & fond memories of times past for everyone who views them. My condolencies to his family & friends - Neil.

Kevin Desmond		10-Mar-2009 00:47
Thank You Keith for these remarkable photographs.Your memory will live on forever through this superb archive of Birmingham and its surrounding areas.You showed amazing foresight by photographing seemingly ordinary places and making them interesting,whilst capturing that bygone era for future generations.Thank you again and rest in peace.

bren		07-Mar-2009 02:50
So sad to hear the news of Keiths death, through his work he managed to capture many moments and memories in all our lives and for that we will be eternally grateful

John K Colin		06-Mar-2009 19:53
Just like to say that I am very sad to hear of Keiths death, his photographs have given me hours of enjoyment over the pass few years.....thank you Keith for keeping my memoires alive.....

Guest		06-Mar-2009 14:44
Vanessa, I am so very sorry to read of Keith's death, please pass on my condolances to his family. Keith left behind a wonderful legacy. A grateful veiwer of his site.

Jennifer Nicol		06-Mar-2009 01:57
Vanessa: Such sad news of Keith's passing. I spent many hours viewing his amazing work and he helped revive so many memories of the Birmingham sadly gone. His work will live on. His love of photography and cameras was unique. To Judy,Please accept my sincere condolences at this very sad time. Thanks for letting us know.

Guest		02-Mar-2009 22:00
Found this site whilst browsing what fantastic photos. My great great grandmother/father and great grandmother were pawnbrokers in Aston in 1800's and I have been researching and still trying to find what happened to great grandmother Alice Elizabeth M Hoare (formerly Read) last address 48 Lower King Edward Street a Pawbroker in census 1881. I know it's a long time ago but if anyone can help contact valryan85a@aol.com

Guest		13-Feb-2009 12:30
Vanessa: Very saddened to learn of Keith's passing. I'm sure I speak for all who enjoyed his wonderful photographs of old Birmingham, which brought back great memories for so many.. My condolences to all his family. Peter

Vanessa		12-Feb-2009 13:36
I am very sorry to advise you that Keith Berry passed away on Sunday 25 January 2009. I am a neighbour and friend of his wife, Joyce. Kind regards,

Ann Bibb		10-Feb-2009 19:00
My Dad (Stanley Clarke) used to live with a couple who owned a shop in Percy Road, Greet called Hill's. The shop is long closed but I would love to find a picture of it, so if anyone has a picture, I would be really pleased to hear from you. Great site with loads of brilliant photographs.

Guest		03-Feb-2009 12:26
What a fascinating site - for many years my grandad Albert Beaman ran a barber shop in Nineveh Road Handsworth and I would love to find a photograph of it - if my memory if still working I think I can remember standing on the step and watching the trains go over the bridge

Mandy Lines		01-Feb-2009 00:10
What a fantastic site. I stumbled across it trying to trace my great grandparents. They owned a transport cafe on Kingsbury Road (where Burger King is now). Their name was Potter, and it was a popular place during the war being opposite the plane factory. It was also used by Italian prisoners of war. My dad Bill Thomas went to Gunter Road school and later began his working life at BIP Tyburn Road. He served with the home guard on anti aircraft guns where he used to call "Windy Ridge" by the Tyburn Road. Do any of these details ring any bells with anyone??? Thank you for allowing me to see places relating to my family history, its all part of where we come from and we should be proud to be Brummies.

Jim Clarke		25-Jan-2009 02:31
A wonderfull collection of old photographs. I came across this site whilst trying to trace a photograph of the old grocery shop on the corner of Kendal Rd and Montgomery St in Birmingham. My wifes Grandfather owned this shop and she has been trying to get a picture of it for ages, I believe it was burnt down in the sixties. Would be grateful if anyone could help. Regards Jim

Jules		24-Jan-2009 18:20
I am a Brummie in my forties - I was born at 'East B'ham Hospital' (now Heartlands Hospital), lived in Shard End, then Castle Vale, then Sutton Coldfield before moving out to Staffordshire over 20 years ago. I have always worked in B'ham though, my job covers the City Centre, Digbeth, Five Ways, Edgbaston, Handsworth, Handsworth Wood, Newtown, Hockley, Lozells, Perry Barr, Great Barr, Harborne, Saltley, Nechells, Washwood Heath, Quinton, Ladywood, Aston, Alum Rock, Kingstanding, Castle Vale & Erdington. It was great to see old photo's of some of my haunts! Good work, Keith, much appreciated.

gary e cooper		19-Jan-2009 00:01
gary e cooper born may 3rd, 1936. 98 berners st.,lozells, b'ham 19. we lived on the old aston villa training ground, in trinity rd., i emigrated to the U.S.A. over 38 years ago, your photo's are great, i worked in the jewellery quater, they bought back some happy memory's, if any one out there rembers me please get in touch, once again thanks for the memory's. regards. COOP. gcooper37@tampabay.rr.com.

linda ward		18-Jan-2009 22:32
hiya im a canal boat person i was born on the canal boats at wolverhampton and was brought up on them then worked on them great life hard but well worth it great times my addy is linda-ward101@hotmail.com

linda ward		18-Jan-2009 22:27
hiya great pic i am trying to trace any pic of the hostel i went to in the 50s the address was 24 wood end hall wood end lane erdington birmingham 24 have you got any plz or do you know who i can contact to get some it was a hostel for the canal children to attend school we went to birches green then moor end both erdington birmingham 24 any imfo you have i would be greatful of my addy is linda_ward101@hotmail.com thanks very much hope you or anyone else who reads this can help

norman Hockley		17-Jan-2009 04:44
Norman Hockley born 1958 Tessal lane Northfield. moved to Manningford road Druids Heath estate 1966. Lordswood boys school Hagley road. West Midlands fire Service 1976-1981 Acocks Green and Highgate fire stations. Now in USA. Love the pics of the Birmingham I knew and loved. Came back for a visit summer 2008 no traffic on New street or corporation street seems like the city has lost its soul. Your pics bring tears to my eyes for my lost youth and lost friends. Thank you.

John P		30-Dec-2008 02:36
These are such wonderful pictures,made all the more so if you have lived the life shown in them.If you grew up in those council houses,felt the cold night air outside the glowing shop-front,walked the tumble-down steets of busy workshops,felt the excitement of the fair......you can't help being touched by these images of a time gone by.Many,many thanks.

boni heward		18-Dec-2008 21:03
i'm told my grandmothers family use to own a hotel in birmingham early 1900's. ? the weaver hotel...anybody have knowledge? trying to find some family history. thankyou

Jean Allen		25-Nov-2008 18:21
Hi it's Jean Allen again. The information I mentioned before was totally wrong?. My mom Babs Palmer. worked for the company called Scaggs in Hockley brook. Not as I first said in Keyhill. Does anyone out there know her. I would love to here from you.

Mat Irvine		22-Nov-2008 18:40
I just wanted to say a heartfelt Thankyou Keith, these pictures have brought a smile to my face, which has'nt happened in a while, so once again I thankyou.

Jean Allen		21-Nov-2008 02:05
The photo's are just fantastic Keith. My mom used to work in a factory in Key Hill. I think it was called, J.P.Stagg. She was a power press operator there for quite awhile before having an accident at the factory in 1967 and dying later that day. She was known as Babs palmer. Does anyone remember the factory and when it closed. I am writing my memoir and need this info regarding my mom.

Eloise Watkins		20-Nov-2008 15:00
Great photos - really useful for my research!

ziggy		18-Nov-2008 18:14
What a brilliant site:)so great to see the old days,i live in kings heath now,and have found a couple of pictures of where we live,as it was many years ago,fascinating how it used to look,good for you for posting such a fabulous site:)

Richard Brown		09-Nov-2008 06:08
Thanks very much Keith for taking the time to scan and post your photos. I grew up in Handsworth in the 60's and 70s and now live in Erdington, so I recognised many of the places you showed. Also, many of the shots of Witton and the city centre. Your pictures are true historical documents. I was particularly interested in the shot of the Old Toll House on Villa Road/Hamstead Hill taken in March 1979 looking very frosty. I well remember the bitter winter of 1978/79 as I started a new job in the January and walking to work every day, the pavements were solid ice for what seemed like weeks.

RON WATKINS		03-Nov-2008 10:47
I was born in Erdington Rd - lived in nechells, aston, ward end,great barr and hall green before coming to Australia in 1968. Iwas delighted to find these wonderful photographs of all the places me and my friends knew when we where growing up just after the war. we where bombed out three times during the blitz, lived nearly two years down a community shelter on the corner of POTTERS HILL & VICTORIA RD. ASTON. i attended Albert rd junior school, and Gower st. seniors. We have been here in OZ for the past 40 years, and one of the reasons we have not "gone home" is the thought of all the places we knew would be gone or changed beyond recall. with the photographs on this web site we can look at the Brum we grew up in, without the cost involved.

Chris Brennan		21-Oct-2008 13:48
Great site, i can remember some of the places when i was a lad in the 60's, my brother remembers even more!

colin walker		05-Oct-2008 14:57
Hi what brill site I was born in irving street in 1958. In one of those back to back houses. m0m and 5 kids in a 1 bed house I,ve been trying to find some pictures from that area bi found this site. if any one knows of any similar sites i would love to know about them. In case your not were irving st was it is the road that goes up the side of the dome night club. just on the queens way.

missilou		03-Oct-2008 11:26
Thank you Kieth for this visit down memory lane, I was actually googling Deakin Avenue School when I found your pcitures. Dont know if you or anyone else remembers myself or my family. I was born in Heathfiled Road hospital I think, in 1963, I lived at 172 Brantley Road, with my nan (Lilian Casey) my Grandad, my Uncle Andy, my Auntie Kath and my Dad Charle Casey. I went to Deakin Avenue School, and then we moved to the newsagents in Tame Road. Apparently my Mother Mary Rose Casey left me when I was 18 months old with my Dad, Charle, then we moved in with my Nan. I dont have much recollection of that, and no one told me much, would be nice if anyone new any more info on that. But was great to see the pictures, it was a happy time for me, until my Dad decided to take me to Chelmsley Wood with his new wife.

Gordon Hughes		12-Sep-2008 00:48
Supurb photo's Keith, I have always regretted not taking more pictures myself of the way it was in the 1950's. I was born and raised in Aston opposite the fire station in Grange Road and have written extensively about Aston and my experiences there as a youth up until 1960 when I moved to Canada. I have added a few comments to some of the local pictures in your collection and would be only to happy to provide more details from that era to anyone who is interested.

Norm Hartland		03-Sep-2008 04:23
What a fantastic collection I was searching for info on old Bham buses when I found your site. I agree with your comments re Velocette motorcycles, I owned a 1958 Venom which I thoroughly enjoyed but I think certain models of BSA could compare quite well. I am an old Waverley Grammar boy, I left UK in 1965 and live in New Zealand.

John Mills		14-Aug-2008 19:39
My great grandfather had a greengrocers and lived in Lancaster Street around 1884 His name was Phelps.I was born at Knowle Road in 1936.I would like to know if anyone has pictures of shops in area of Lancaster Street or any old shops with name of Phelps

Viv		14-Aug-2008 16:13
Wow some fantastic pics. Brings back a lot of memories when I was a girl. I worked in the Jewellery quarter some 30 years ago, it has changed now, but I still have some old contacts there. Very nostalgic.

Shirley (nee Beardshaw)		13-Aug-2008 12:49
I lived in Theodore Street in the early 60s and went to St Georges Church in New John Street West. The picture along side the church next to the gate is of the front of St Georges Clubrooms I was standing on those steps when I heard about assassination of President Kennedy. Thankyou for the memories

George Harvey		09-Aug-2008 05:35
Great site. I lived above a shop at he top of Walsall Market in the late fifties, early sixties and seeing you pics sure brought back happy memories of Walsall

michael evans		02-Aug-2008 22:00
Just stumbled across your site by accident but im glad i did now, absolutly brilliant photos! im living in ireland but grew up in nechells, i remember as a 5 year old watching the radiation factory in aston burn down, brought back so many memories! the best photos i've seen in a long time!

Alexandra Clarkson		01-Aug-2008 11:53
Talk about going down memory lane. I now live in South Africa but lived in Sutton Coldfield as a child and worked in Birmingham at Rackhams when it first opened in the early sixy's. thanks Keith.

Mark		01-Aug-2008 06:16
WOW!! I stumbled on this site looking for pics of St. Chads school, which was attached to the Cathedral. Awesome collection. Still looking through it. Anybody have pics of HANLEY STREET, 1960s?

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		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.

Guest		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!

Guest		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! :-)

Guest		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

colin carwithen		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 :)		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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