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Original poster

"Recent" history query

15 replies

TeabySea · 15/02/2024 11:35

Would anyone be able to advise what trade fairs/shows/big exhibitions/festivals or similar events took place in 1953 in or near London? I'm thinking something like Festival of Britain or Great Air Race.

I have an old family photo which has some frustrating features - no specific date, just the year, and no location. I know it would have had to be in or near London.

The photo is taken outdoors and looks to be something to do with transport or travel, but that could be a section of a wider exhibition.

I don't want to out myself by posting the photo here (I've been touting it around various places) but wonder if anyone can help narrow down with some suggestions of what events there were.

OP posts:
TheSingingDefective · 15/02/2024 12:12

Something to do with the Queen's coronation maybe ?

BasilParsley · 15/02/2024 12:35

There was a motor exhibition at Earls Court, London, from October 21 to October 31 1953

DeanElderberry · 15/02/2024 12:39

Whitaker's Almanack has a two-year lapse when reporting events, so a 1955 Whitaker's would have a list of 1953 exhibitions, shows, and events.

Original poster
TeabySea · 15/02/2024 12:52

DeanElderberry · 15/02/2024 12:39

Whitaker's Almanack has a two-year lapse when reporting events, so a 1955 Whitaker's would have a list of 1953 exhibitions, shows, and events.

Thanks, this is well worth a look. I hadn't figured out where I might find a list.

OP posts:
Original poster
TeabySea · 15/02/2024 12:52

BasilParsley · 15/02/2024 12:35

There was a motor exhibition at Earls Court, London, from October 21 to October 31 1953

Thanks - I'll take a look but this was definitely something in an outdoor setting with trees and fences, so may rule out EC as a venue.

OP posts:
Original poster
TeabySea · 15/02/2024 13:02

MothQuandary · 15/02/2024 12:55

I think the London bit of this was at Earl's Court, which potentially rules this out.

The photo has mature trees in the background and a large open outdoor space, which I don't think EC had, even back in the 1950s.

Maybe something connected to this though, so good idea!

OP posts:
BIWI · 15/02/2024 13:35

Brooklands? A venue near Woking where there's a motor sport track.

BIWI · 15/02/2024 13:36

Sorry - near Weybridge

MothQuandary · 15/02/2024 13:37

Farnborough air show?

BIWI · 15/02/2024 13:44

Instagram post for England 1953 could give you some ideas?

BIWI · 15/02/2024 15:14

Sorry, I meant Pinterest, not instagram!

Original poster
TeabySea · 19/02/2024 15:05

@BIWI Thankyou for the hint about Pinterest. Would you believe after a little bit of digging I found what I was looking for!

Not a transport exhibition at all but Festival of Britain.

OP posts:
BIWI · 19/02/2024 16:17

Yay! So pleased I could help! Smile

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