They are some of the earliest photos and images we have in our archive and show how primitive parts of the town were and how much it has evolved. There’s a great one of Central Drive which has nothing but sand either side of a track and one on the beach with donkeys and women wearing heavy long dresses and hats which were typical of the Victorian era. Wouldn’t be great to travel back in time - just for a day to experience what our town was like in those early years.
1. Blackpool's earliest photos
Not a dull moment promised the sign at the old Victoria Street entrance to the Winter Gardens seen here before the erection of what was known as the Victoria Annexe in 1897. Admission was just six pence (2.5p) at the sprawling attraction whose opening by the Lord Mayor of London in July 1878 was the biggest spectacle Blackpool had ever experienced. Winter Gardens Victoria Street Enterance 1880s Photo: Submit
2. Blackpool's earliest photos
Poet Laureate Samuel Laycock (centre with white beard) on Blackpool promenade around 1890 Photo: submit
4. Blackpool's earliest photos
Smoke across the sea as a pleasure steamer leaves the North Pier jetty in this Victorian photograph taken from Talbot Square This was pre 1885 as there are no tram lines Historical Blackpool Photo: staff
5. Lost Archives - Central Drive 1880s, Blackpool
Look at this - Central Drive in the 1880s! Photo: National World
6. Blackpool's earliest photos
Coronation Street junction with Church Street Photo: submit