Throughout the past century, many iconic buildings have been destroyed as quickly as they were erected, leaving some to fade into the distant memories of Blackpool’s history. However, they have not been allowed to be totally forgotten. The Stanley Park Visitor Centre is currently host to a brilliant exhibition which celebrates the heritage of many buildings which may have been lost to demolition and explores the history surrounding them. The exhibition will be running until 2nd August which allows ample time for all to see this informative display well-worthy of a visit.
I myself have recently visited, viewing an array of unseen photography of these constructions which have unfortunately been wiped from the landscape of Blackpool. Whilst you wander round the presentations and read some concisely summarised histories, a film plays along with musical classics from the early 1900s. This adds an abundance of realism to the experience and really brings the whole exhibition of lifeless buildings back to their former glory.
Councillor Graham Cain, Cabinet Secretary for Blackpool Council said “Blackpool has a great deal of history and heritage and it’s great that it has all been documented for people to remember.”
“This exhibition will be yet another reason for people to enjoy Stanley Park this summer and just adds to the various activities and events that we have already arranged there.”
Chairman of the Friends of Stanley Park group, Elaine Smith, added: “This is an exhibition which really celebrates Blackpool’s heritage and history, of which we are blessed to have so much.”
The exhibition offers information and images surrounding more than 10 iconic buildings such as Christ Church, the Hippodrome, Kent Tower, the Sun Parlour and the Manchester Hotel. One area I found particularly intriguing was the Derby Baths display. As a child, my parents and relatives used to visit so frequently and were astonished to hear that it would no longer exist which seems to be common opinion amongst the generations.
The visitor centre of Stanley Park is situated next to the Art Deco Café in the park itself and is open to view the exhibition Wednesday to Sunday between 11am and 3pm, staffed by volunteers. The exhibition is highly recommended by myself and by the hundreds of others who visited last time it appeared and enjoyed it so much.
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