Dressed in their Sunday best for a stroll on Southsea Common
They were postmarked Portsmouth and sent to addresses in Eastbourne, Emsworth and Southampton.
They are particularly attractive having embossed shell decoration on a pale iridescent duck-egg blue background.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe photographs in the ovals almost look coloured but would have been expertly tinted.
They were sent to me by Jackie Baynes who has only these three in her postcard collection, but she would really like to hear from readers who may have others in the series.
The first card entitled Ladies Mile – Southsea Common, above, is particularly attractive.
It shows women in their Sunday best gathering on the common on what looks to be a fine, sunny day as some have parasols up. In the distance can be seen the Witch’s Hat top of Lennox Mansions.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe next view is called Castle and Parade – Southsea. It shows a family with a young child together with two men in service uniform.
Does any reader know what the six large brick constructions were? Ventilation shafts is my best guess.
I like the row of wooden and metal folding chairs placed at the edge of the path. Is the man in the white jacket and hat collecting money from people sitting on them?
Finally, the Garrison Church – Portsmouth card showing a church parade scene which is well supported.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe Garrison Church of course at this date was still in regular use with its nave roof intact, with a south-facing porch which is no longer there.
The impressive building to the back on the left is The Royal Naval Club.
I tried hard to read the words on the sign in the crowd to the right, but could only make out the top word which is NOTICE.