Great photos, good find paul.
Precious glass negatives provide intimate glimpse into the life of an Edwardian family
Paddling in the sea while smoking a pipe, dressed in a waistcoat, stiffly starched shirt and perky straw boater; out on a fishing trip with the family and gathering for an outdoor amateur production of Twelfth Night in an age before large screen TVs and games consoles.
These beautiful pictures provide an intimate spyglass
Dapper: Photographer Jack Urton takes a paddle with daughters Mary and Lois, complete with pipe and waistcoat. The images, taken by him in the early part of the 20th century, are now being exhibited at the Lady Lever Art GalleryThe precious glass negatives were recently discovered in an attic, and the prints are now being exhibited for the first time at the Lady Lever Art Gallery in Port Sunlight Village on the Wirral.
They were taken in the early part of the 20th century by Jack Urton, a keen photographer, who lived on the Wirral peninsula. In them we see his wife, Biddy, and daughters, Mary and Lois, living through the glorious, carefree summers that preceded World War I.
That's entertainment: With friends for a production of Twelfth Night
Little ladies: [L] Biddy unhooks a fish while on a boat, and little Lois is happily perched among some pot plantsWe also meet an assortment of friends and relatives and sometimes even catch a glimpse of Jack himself.
The Urtons were a respectable middle-class family who appeared to spend much of their spare time indulging in simple outdoor pleasures.
Sitting pretty: Lois teaches her pet dog some tricksThe Wirral was then a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the country. Many came to see the New Brighton Tower, a great landmark built in 1900 which stood taller than Blackpool Tower but lasted for only 20 years before being demolished.
And it was in its shadow, playing in the sand and swimming in the sea - wearing full-length bathing suits and caps - that the Urtons played out the loving family life that is captured
Festive message: The girls wish everyone a Merry Christmas, the Edwardian way
1910 Beachwear collection: Mary and Lois lark about in traditional bathing suits
Hitting the road: Father and photographer Jack pictured on the right
Innocent times: The Urton family and a friend attempt to catch dinner
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