Aerial photographs by Arthur William Hobart from the 1930s reveal everyday life in England, showcasing both horse-drawn and motor vehicles, along with notable industrial and community landmarks. Recently digitised by Historic England, the 242-image collection captures a transformative era for Britain, contrasting with today’s landscapes.
A unique collection of black and white photographs by Arthur William Hobart, a pioneering aerial photographer of the 1930s, unveils a strikingly different landscape of England. Taken while Hobart leaned out of a biplane, the images depict everyday life, showcasing horse-drawn vehicles alongside motorised ones, bustling rivers filled with working boats, and tranquil seaside scenes devoid of today’s overcrowded resorts. This collection, comprising 242 images, was recently digitised by Historic England and features notable landmarks, towns, and industrial sites, documenting the period between the two World Wars. Hobart, born in 1882, initially worked in various trades before venturing into aerial photography around 1920. His work was commissioned by the construction industry and published as postcards, offering a novel perspective of the British landscape. The collection highlights significant infrastructures like Battersea Power Station and Twickenham Bridge and captures the essence of regions including England, Wales, and Scotland. Gary Winter from Historic England appreciates the poignant images that reveal the embedded nature of industries in working-class communities, particularly the Potteries in Staffordshire. “There’s a huge contrast to the sort of deindustrialised landscape that we have around us now,” he noted. Winter also celebrates images of football grounds, including a compelling view of Southampton’s former stadium, The Dell, surrounded by community homes. The collection’s name, Air Pictures Portleven, stems from a miswritten reference to the fishing village of Porthleven in Cornwall, where Hobart spent his later years. Duncan Wilson of Historic England remarked on the ability of these historical images to transport viewers back to the 1930s, showcasing the evolving face of Britain during the interwar years.
This article discusses a collection of historical aerial photographs taken in the 1930s by Arthur William Hobart, a figure known for his unique perspective on Britain’s landscapes and communities. As aerial photography was still a novel concept at the time, these images provide insights into the everyday life of Britons, capturing a significant transformation in the industrial and social environment of the nation.
The collection of aerial photographs by Arthur William Hobart offers a fascinating glimpse into 1930s England, revealing the intersection of industry and community. As Historic England releases these images, they serve as a valuable resource for understanding the changes in British society between the two World Wars, contrasting sharply with modern landscapes. The collection not only preserves the legacy of Hobart’s work but also allows contemporary viewers to reflect on the historical context of their environment.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com