21 historic pictures of Blackpool in the 1800s as the resort was taking shape
By Claire Lark
Published 9th Aug 2023, 12:00 BST
We’ve tried to go back as early as possible with these photos to show how Blackpool was shaping up in the 1800s.
One of the oldest pictures in our archives shows the promenade – minus the Tower. Others show scenes dotted around Blackpool, streets, the beach and early attractions. They are a warm, nostaglic look from days which can only be imagined through photographs…
Talbot Road North Station, taken in the 1890s. The original gateway to Blackpool by rail, it was pulled down in 1896 and the terminal was later to be known as Blackpool North Station Photo: library
Looking along the statue lined main drive of Raikes Hall Gardens in the 1890s. In the trees on the left is the switchback railway, beyond it is the Monkey House and in the distance on the right is the annular conservatory surrounding the skating rink Photo: National World
Doctor Cocker's Menagerie and Aquarium, pictured here in the very early 1890s, was on the site of the present aquarium in Blackpool Tower Photo: Archive