Bridgwater The Second Selection

This intriguing second selection of over 200 photographs, glass and other negatives has been compiled using the collections held at the Blake Museum, Bridgwater. Many of the images included in this volume are from the celebrated Bridgwater photographer Douglas Allen who established his photographic studios in Friarn Street, Bridgwater in 1948. These photographs are largely from the early period of the studio’s life - from around 1954 to 1960 - and reflect the changes that have taken place in Bridgwater during the second half of the twentieth century. In addition to the photographs of local commerce and industry, and those from his work for the Bridgwater Mercury, Douglas Allen also compiled those of a more personal nature; specialising in photographs of family groups and occasions such as weddings, birthdays and anniversaries. Some of these are contained within this volume and provide the reader with a fascinating insight into the social history of the people and places that have shaped this historic town. From images of everyday experiences of school, work and shopping to special occasions like coronation celebrations and carnivals, Bridgwater: The Second Selection documents the people and places of this fascinating Somerset town.