Old Harborne

Old Harborne Synopsis

Harborne is essentially a Victorian creation. Although the village was mentioned in Domesday Book, it retained the status of a small village until it became formally included in greater Birmingham in 1891. It quickly became a bustling suburb although to this day retains much of the charm and identity of a village community.

This fascinating collection of over 200 old photographs has been drawn mainly from the extensive collections of the Birmingham Libraries and the author, a keen local historian, is also a librarian in a local branch library. The photographs show all aspects of life in the community over a period of more than a hundred years.

Particularly interesting are the views of rural Harborne at the turn of the century and also scenes in the ChadValley Company, probably Britain's best known toy manufacturer, which had its factory in the area from the 1890s until the 1970s. There are also some nostalgic views of the long-lamented Harborne railway station.

This book will appeal to all who know and love the area and would enjoy a peep into its recent past.