Lanterna Rally

Author: Martin Jenkins

Publisher: Pen and Sword Transport

Published: 2021-01-18

Total Pages: 375

ISBN-13: 152676413X

Travel through the mid-twentieth century British Isles in this stunning collection of street photography featuring historic vehicles and buildings. This remarkable book takes the reader on a nostalgic transport journey into streets throughout the British Isles some of which have hardly changed, except for the vehicles displayed, whilst others have been transformed or have, in some cases, altered virtually beyond all recognition. Hours of fascinating research using Google Street View has enabled the authors to indicate how their selected street scenes have changed and also how readers can explore these changes for themselves by accessing Google Street View. The authors have managed to bring together some truly outstanding and often stunning images from a period when color coverage of transport subjects was in its infancy. As a result, the book includes many previously unpublished views taken between 1950 and 1975 the majority from collections held by Online Transport Archive, of which charity both authors are trustees. The richly varied street scenes depict not only buses, trams and trolleybuses but also people as well as railway locomotives, cars, lorries, vans, cinemas, churches, retail outlets and public houses. An absolute feast for the eye. Rich in variety and with a wealth of detailed captions. “This is a highly readable and accessible book which will immerse the reader in scenes of a halcyon yesteryear. As the reader turns the pages, it would be understandable to feel mournful about the loss of manufacturers; coachwork builders, and the industrial scenes enclosed within. However, there is also cause to be thankful for the vision of the photographers to capture the everyday scenes which whilst no longer with us, have been captured and preserved for the benefit of posterity.” —Donna’s Book Blog “A highly recommended read for all. Five stars.” —UK Historian