#PhotographicHistoryofIpswichDocks 7
Theme
Ipswich is fortunate that some of the earliest photographs ever taken of its dock and the River Orwell still survive. A few of these early scenes, captured by pioneer photographers such as the local artist Robert Burrows and chemist John Wiggin, date back to around 1850. Many later Victorian pictures were turned into postcards – the emails of their time, as they could be posted and received on the same day. We are lucky to have many copies of these historic Ipswich postcards in our Image Archive. We are grateful to the many donors of images who have to date contributed over 2000 photographs, many of which have been digitally restored.
Background
Ipswich Docks through the age of photography focuses on a selection from our Image Archive. Featuring 17 iconic photographs dating from 1850s to the more recent past, of the working docks of Ipswich. This display showcases the busy port-town of Ipswich throughout the ages.
Highlights
One of the most striking photos included in the display is a panoramic photo taken from the top of a gasholder on the quayside, fully showcasing the 25 acres of water that make up the historic Wet Dock.