Two transformative decades in the history of Middlesbrough are the focus of the latest book by Middlesbrough-born historian Dr Tosh Warwick.
Memories of Middlesbrough in the 1950s and 1960s explores the story of life in the town during an era that brought recovery from the Second World War, changes in industrial and cultural life, and the end days for many historic buildings that were replaced by modern developments.
The richly illustrated book features over 160 photographs, newspaper reports and dozens of memories and includes material from a range of sources including the M&S Archive, Middlesbrough Libraries, Teesside Archives and the fascinating photographic collection of the late historian Paul Stephenson.
The book details the transformation of the townscape across two decades, including the fire at Marton Hall and drastic changes in the historic Cannon Street and St Hilda’s areas that saw many houses and landmark buildings felled – including St Hilda’s Church and the oldest house built in modern Middlesbrough – and the town hit national headlines owing to the Cannon Street Riots of 1961.
Changes in the iron and steel industries and the development of new and expanding businesses are revealed with Dorman Long, South Durham Steel and Iron Company, Colliers and the new Telephone Exchange all featuring.
The book includes stories of new schools and youth clubs, and also explores the changing face of shopping through household names such as Barry’s, Binns, BHS, Jack Hatfield and Sons, Hintons, Marks & Spencer, Newboulds, Newhouses, Romer Parrish, Uptons and Wrights.
In cultural and sporting developments, the era brought new facilities such as Clairville Stadium and the Little Theatre, as well as the opening of Middlesbrough Municipal Art Gallery and improvements at Ayresome Park.
Photographs and tales from special events including the Festival of Britain, Corpus Christi processions, the visit of HM Queen Elizabeth II in 1956 and the World Cup at Ayresome Park in 1966 – where North Korea famously knocked out Italy in one of the biggest shocks of all time – all help tell the story of life in the town.
Author Tosh Warwick, founder of Heritage Unlocked and a University of Sheffield researcher who previously authored Memories of Middlesbrough in the 1970s and 1980s, said: “It has been fantastic sharing the recent history and heritage of the town through a range of collections including Middlesbrough Libraries, Teesside Archives and the late Paul Stephenson’s tremendous photographs.
“It is important we remember our town’s past and there are many lessons from the two decades that could prove useful today.
“I hope Memories of Middlesbrough in the 1950s and 1960s helps bring back fond memories for readers and inspires others to explore our town’s rich history.”
- Priced £14.99 RRP, the book is available to buy at www.heritageunlocked.com/shop as well as local bookshops and online retailers.
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