Category: Random History

Sunny, Happy Days

What a difference a century makes. Warm weather at the end of June 1926 meant that kids at Holy Trinity School in Halifax had their lessons outdoors, “under ideal conditions.” A hundred years later, similar warm weather brings a very different response. Before we start bemoaning the delicate snowflakes of the modern era, it should … Continue reading Sunny, Happy Days

It’s A Gas

I don't normally go in for this clickbait thing or having adverts associated with my various online activities, but times are hard and we all have to make a living. Therefore, I would like to draw your attention to the exhibition and series of lectures and demonstrations that have been organised by the Halifax Corporation … Continue reading It’s A Gas

Salute The Happy Morn

As we edge our way towards 2026, I can do no better than to repeat the sentiments expressed in an advert produced by the Halifax brewery, Richard Whitaker & Sons, 100 years ago: "Good health throughout the coming year, with work enough to keep you happy, leisure just enough to keep you fit, and money … Continue reading Salute The Happy Morn

Thrift And Guns

Short of funds? Don't let that worry you. These days you'd reach for your credit card; 110 years ago you might reach out to the Brighouse Equitable Self-Help Thrift Society. And if that didn't work, you could always buy a battery, a record and an air gun from Richardson's on Bethel Street.

A Funny Thought

I had a funny thought the other day whilst enjoying a lunchtime pint. Wouldn't it be odd if, after we were born, time went in reverse? Given that I was born in 1948, that would mean it was now 1871! The Franco-Prussian War is just ending, Chicago is on fire and chewing gum is just … Continue reading A Funny Thought

Beer, The Wireless, And Time

The date on the calendar is the 28th of July 2025, but the date on the newspaper is the 28th of July 1925. I'm not sure why I chose these two items from the Halifax Courier of that date; they just seemed to resonate with me. The gentle tone of the beer advert and the … Continue reading Beer, The Wireless, And Time

Gas Nostalgia

You can decide which jet of nostalgia is turned on by this advert which I found in my copy of the 1931 Souvenir Book of the Historical Pageant of Bradford. Perhaps it is the vision of the perfect mother in her perfect lounge surrounded by her perfect children. Or maybe it is the time when … Continue reading Gas Nostalgia

The Keys To The Park

"Now Mr Mayor, I have to present you with the keys and possession of this park for the benefit of the inhabitants of this borough and its neighbourhood for ever. Right happy shall I be to find in years to come many a poor and tried but honest man, wandering here and enjoying the cool … Continue reading The Keys To The Park