This fascinating selection of photographs illustrates the extraordinary transformation that has taken place in Ilford during the twentieth century. The book offers an insight into the daily lives and living conditions of local people and gives the reader glimpses and details of familiar places during a century of unprecedented change.
Many aspects of Ilford’s recent history are covered, famous occasions and individuals are remembered and the impact of national and international events is witnessed. The book provides a striking account of the changes that have also altered Ilford’s appearance and records the process of transformation.
Drawing on detailed local knowledge of the community, and illustrated with a wealth of black-and-white photographs, this book recalls what Ilford has lost in terms of buildings, traditions and ways of life. It also acknowledges and celebrates the character and energy of local people as they move through the first years of this new century.
BRIAN EVANS has compiled a number of pictorial histories of districts around London and Essex. He is a Life Member of the Romford and District Local History Society and edited thirty-two editions of their publication Romford Record. He is a past President of the Rotary Club of Romford for which he produces a newsletter called Turns of the Wheel. As a sideline he gives occasional talks and leads local history ‘walks with a difference’.