Uncovering History Through Glass Slides at Orleton Manor
Old photographs offer a fascinating glimpse into the past of a building, and we are fortunate to have several notable early photographers in Herefordshire who meticulously documented the county's historic buildings. Among these photographers were Alfred Watkins and WH Bustin and Son, whose work has provided invaluable insights into the architectural heritage of the region. Using large glass plates for negatives, these photographers captured remarkably sharp and detailed images that help us understand the changes that have occurred over the past century.
You can click on the photographs to open them on the Hereford History page for greater detail.
The image above shows remnants of the barn to the right of the building which was partly demolished some time in the mid/late 20th century.
Uncovering history, The Treasure Trove of Herefordshire's Photographic Archives
The Hereford Archive has recently made significant strides in preserving and sharing these historical photographs. Many of these images have been uploaded to the Hereford History website, making them accessible to the public. One of the most notable collections is that of WH Bustin and Son, who accumulated approximately 7,000 images over their century-spanning business. These photographs provide a wealth of detail, allowing us to piece together the architectural history and transformations of buildings like Orleton Manor.
Insights Gained from Historical Photographs
The glass plate negatives, fragile yet invaluable, offer a window into the past. Only about a tenth of the original collection has survived, now safely housed in the Herefordshire Record Office. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Record Office's Friends organisation, these negatives have been carefully processed into photographic prints, gradually revealing a literal snapshot of life in early 20th-century Herefordshire. Volunteers began scanning these prints in October 2014, making a selection of them available online for the first time.
Orleton Manor: A Case Study
At Orleton Manor, these historical photographs have helped with uncovering history of the building. For instance, one image shows remnants of a barn to the right of the building, which was partly demolished in the mid to late 20th century. Another intriguing photo captures an old cart wheel modified into a window. Although we have not yet pinpointed the exact framing location, we believe this photo was taken from the entrance door of the sunroom. This wall was demolished as part of the sunroom extension added around 2012.
The Value of Historical Photographs
These detailed photographs not only help us unpick the architectural changes that have occurred over the years but also provide context for our current restoration efforts. By comparing past and present images, we can make informed decisions about preserving the historical integrity of buildings like Orleton Manor.
Explore the Collection
The Hereford History website is a treasure trove for anyone interested in local history. You can explore the entire archive, search for specific buildings or villages, and delve into the rich visual history of Herefordshire. To view the full collection of WH Bustin and Son’s images and more, visit the Herefordshire History website here.
Thanks to the meticulous work of early photographers and the ongoing efforts to preserve and share these images, we can continue to uncover and appreciate the rich architectural heritage of Herefordshire.
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