A new exhibition of aerial photography, Aerofilms: Britain from Above,opens on Saturday 20 February at the Treasure House in Beverley.
The exhibition showcases fascinating photographs from the Aerofilms Collection, which is part of Historic England’s Archive. The images range from the 1920s to the 1950s and capture the rapidly changing face of Britain’s towns, countryside and landmarks: traffic jams at the Epsom Derby, London’s South Bank Centre, combine harvesters working in the fields and new housing estates in our big cities.
There are local views, such as Flamborough Head and Goole Docks, and places that no longer exist, such as the old Wembley stadium. A wonderful photograph from 1952 captures the bustling carousels and helter-skelters of Hull Fair.
Councillor Richard Burton, portfolio holder for civic wellbeing and culture, said: “This promises to be a fascinating exhibition, with a unique chance to see the country as it used to be, and I hope that lots of people will want to come along and see these hugely nostalgic photographs.”
Areofilms Ltd was a pioneering firm of commercial aerial photographers. Established in 1919, they were the first British company to make a business out of aerial photography and blazed a trail for a new industry. This unique collection has been conserved, catalogued and digitised by Historic England and its partners and is available to view online at www.britainfromabove.org.uk.
Visitors to the exhibition can complete a short feedback questionnaire for a chance to win an Aerofilms print of their choice.
Admission to the Treasure House is free and the exhibition runs until 23 April.
Mike Evans, Head of the Historic England Archive, will be giving a talk at the Treasure House, Aerofilms: A Closer Look at Britain from Above, on Tuesday 15 March at 6.30pm. Tickets are £5. To book, visit www.eastriding.gov.uk/events or call (01482) 392699.
