Photographs
The photographic collections
We hold substantial collections of local photographs both in local studies and archive collections (almost 12,000 prints in the former, and around 20,000 images (largely in negative or transparency formats, many glass) in the latter) dating from the early 1860s to the present day.
The vast majority of photographs in these collections are in black and white, though some are in colour, or are colourised (usually postcards).
We also hold the Jack Haddock collection, which comprises more than 5,000 prints and colour transparencies, largely relating to local rail, canal and bus transport. There are also a number of other individual photographers' collections, most notably those of local historians Billy Meikle and Douglas Gilbert, as well as those of Clifford Morris FRPS and our former photographer, Stuart Williams.
Preservation and access
It is an important aspect our work to preserve, collect and make available wherever possible the visual heritage of Walsall Borough, and the entire local studies photograph collection is available for viewing on request. It is listed and indexed, and these finding aids plus a collection of bound photocopies of the collection are available for consultation in our research room. Many photographs within archive collections are also available through a separate index.
Once selected, original images may be examined in that room, with the exception of negatives and original transparencies, which are not usually made available due to preservation concerns.
Photographing of images from our photographic collections by members of the public is not permitted.
Commercial use
Please contact us to enquire about the commerical use of our images.
Jack Haddock photo book
We have published a book packed with historic and nostalgic Walsall rail, bus, canal and townscape photographs from the 1950s onwards. The pictures are by the late Walsall local historian and photographer Jack Haddock, and the book has been edited and designed by Stuart Williams. Entitled The Two-wheeled Time Traveller and costing £8 plus p&p, the book is the ideal gift and is on sale now. Contact us to order a copy.
