Brighton, Aquarium c.1955

Photo ref: B208502

Hello All, I am researching my ancestry on my late fathers side. I have very little information to go on but do know he did at some point live in the area,he was buried in Lewes but to my knowledge only lived there for a few years before passing away in 2014. I believe he may have had some connection to the area before this time. Any time between 1950’s and 2014 If anyone should recognise his name it ...see more

I remember that the eastern part of the park was turned into allotments during the war. And a water-filled ditch was created for testing tanks' abilities to cross muddy/hilly terrain. And after the war there were often sheep dog trials and other events to attend (I lived in Lovers Walk opposite the park). I'd love to see any photos of the Park at any time

It was Uncle Bonnie's Chinese Jazz Club which ran all-night sessions on a Friday night, from 11pm to about 6am the next morning. All sorts of jazz was played, including trad jazz. There were singles and couples, I think drinks most of the night, and of course a smoky atmosphere from cigarettes. Great music and atmosphere, you all went home for breakfast unless you found an open cafe - what time did Joe ...see more

The Aquarium was the venue for the 'Chinese Jazz Club' which was run by a man in a straw hat called 'Bonnie'. I was a regular as a student and despite the name all I recall was R&B music from a range of bands and singers including Muddy Waters, Blind Lemon Jefferson (I think) , Long John Baldry and Rod Stewart - then known as Rod the Mod.