Epsom, Surrey, c1914

Epsom, Surrey, circa 1914. This fine photographic postcard was published by Holman of Surbiton. Holman's postcards are notable for the high quality of the photography and printing. Unfortunately little is known about Mr Holman himself. He was probably Henry Holman, born 1871. Henry Holman (with Henry Wiles) took over Edward Gane Inge's postcard business and pharmacy in Haslemere, but I think Holman moved on and set up on his own in about 1912.
Epsom is clearly a little busier today. Click the picture to enlarge, there are some nice details to be seen in the enlarged image.

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Weybridge, Surrey, High Street showing Zenith Motor Works c1913

Weybridge, Surrey, High Street c1913. The most striking thing about this postcard is the Zenith motorcycle company's factory right in the High Street, in a small shop, now replaced by a pub called the 'Percy Lambert'.  Zenith moved their factory in 1909 to Weybridge High Street to be close to Brooklands racing circuit. Zenith were a very innovative company and were very successful at racing. The company was run by Freddie Barnes. The sign on the right-hand column says 'Makers of "Zenith" - Bicar (patented) - "Zenette" - Tri-Car'. Check out these links for more info on Zenith:

Vintagent
Wikipedia Entry
Grace's Guide

The Street View is not showing quite the correct angle. If you move forward in the Street View you can see the rest of the street. The left part of the pub occupies Zenith Motor Works and the right side is where International Stores were. Percy Lambert was a racing car driver who raced at Brooklands. I think they should rename the pub to the 'Freddie Barnes', it would be far more appropriate. The grand looking building further on down the street is Holstein Hall, a theatre, now demolished. Holstein Hall will be featuring on this blog in the near future. This postcard was published by Holman of Surbiton, whose postcards are known for their excellent quality. Click to enlarge.

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In the close-up below you can see some workers lounging around in the upper window, possibly having a tea break. Click to enlarge.

Putney High Street, S.W. London c1913

Postcard by Holman of Surbiton. Putney High Street today:

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Roehampton High Street c1915

Roehampton High Street c1915. Postcard by Holman of Surbiton. Click here for modern Streetview of this area. Just out of shot on the left is the historic Kings Head pub, now sadly derelict.

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Guildford Theatre Royal 1913

Both of these postcards were photographed in 1913, this one by W. H. Applebee in July:

This one was taken by Holman of Surbiton in August:

The theatre was opened in 1912 and closed in 1932. There is an excellent web page about it here. Click here for a modern Streetview of this area today.


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