Now we are back in 1954
HAPPY New Year everyone!
Last week we went back to 1953, but this week we are in 1954, for a four-page New Year spread of more great sketches by local artist, Alfred Thomas Warbis.
The drawings are taken from his regular slot: From the Artist’s Sketchbook - Special to the Echo, which ran in the newspaper from the 1950s to the early 1970s.
He travelled all over the area with his sketch book and in addition to his drawings he would add a few lines about the places he captured.
Can you tell us more about the places shown?
Please call Andy Rush at Looking Back on 01509 635802.
E-mail andy.rush@reachplc.com
• For all of you who admire this marvellous artist’s sketches, there is a super book on sale, complied by Loughborough Library Local Studies Volunteers.
From an Artist Sketchbook, Then and Now, can be bought at the Local and Family History Centre at Loughborough Library.
Copies are available at £8.99.
A COUNTRY scene, sketched by AT Warbis for the Echo in 1954.
Mr Warbis wrote: “Meet Mr and Mrs Joseph Squires and their young family of eight and dog. Where do they live? The answer may be seen in the background.
“It is a compact home on wheels, a horse caravan in fact. Peep inside and you’ll be surprised at the arrangement.
“The small enclosed coal stove, surmounted by shiny copper kettle and cooking utensils will intrigue you, as well as the strong plank seats along the sides, and neat, broad platform used as a bed for the children at night and communal perch for them during the inclement,weather.
“Everything is neat and clean.
“Wild indeed must be the weather to keep these hardy young gypsies indoors. They prefer to roam in the long grass near the hedges, or to wander off in a band to see the sights in the nearby town or village.
“On this Sunday morning they have camped on the verge in Catsick Lane. Breakfast is over and brushing and combing proceeding.
“Tomorrow they will be - where?
“On the road to Northampton
or Kettering perhaps, for Mr Squires, who is a general dealer must provide for his large family.
“All the children were born in the caravan. They never grow tired of their back garden, for it is never the same.”