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An Historical Photographic Archive of National Importance

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Nostalgic memories of Christchurch's local history

Share your own memories of Christchurch and read what others have said

For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our web site to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was when the photographs in our archive were taken. From brief one-liners explaining a little bit more about the image depicted, to great, in-depth accounts of a childhood when things were rather different than today (and everything inbetween!). We've had many contributors recognising themselves or loved ones in our photographs.

Why not add your memory today and become part of our Memories Community to help others in the future delve back into their past.

Add a Memory!

It's easy to add your own memories and reconnect with your shared local history. Search for your favourite places and look for the 'Add Your Memory' buttons to begin

Add Your Memory for Christchurch

Displaying all 10 Memories

Fishing & Folk Clubs
During the mid '70's I spent many happy school holidays in Christchurch. My brother, Colin, worked at the MoD base (Signals Research & Development) nearby. He had lodgings with a Mrs Alison in the town. There was a direct coach route from where I lived in Somerset at the time. Whilst he was at work, the days were my own. A friend of his lent me his 10 speed racer (luxury at the time) & I ...see more
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Added 04 April 2019

The Ferryman Edward Gregory
The Ferryman in this photo of Blackwater Ferry is my two times great grandfather; Edward Gregory. Former Hampshire County Police Constable, Edward took over the running of the Ferry and the Tea Rooms (it used to sell beer too) on his retirement from the Police force, along with his wife Jane. The Ferry was an important quick route into Bournemouth, via Holdenhurst.
Christchurch, the Ferryman, Blackwater Ferry 1900
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Added 23 October 2012

Christchurch
View of priory.
Christchurch, Church Street c1955
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Added 16 January 2011

118 Hunt Road Somerford
My parents Evelyn & Tom Williams purchased this house brand new in 1956, and we lived there for two years.
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Added 03 February 2010

Turntable
I remember as a small lad being taken by Dad to the back of the (I think) Dolphin pub to watch the trolly buses being put onto to the turntable. First one of the men would get a long pole and disconnect the overhead poles, then the two would turn the trolly bus round using two push bars at 180, then they would re-connnect the poles - sometimes it would spark as they put it back.
Christchurch, High Street, the Trolleybus c1950
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Added 26 August 2009

High Street
I was born and lived in Christchurch for 10 years (1952-1962) but still count  it as my home. Iremember walking down the High Street with Mum and my sister, when she stopped to talk to someone I looked around and saw them knocking down some building at the top of the street ready for the by-pass.
Christchurch, High Street c1955
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Added 26 August 2009

Rail Station Name Plate Machine
Recall using a machine on the platform at Christchurch Railway Station. It punched letters onto a aluminium nameplate strip of metal for 6d. I still have one of them. Film of the Trolley Bus circular turning table can be seen on the youtube site, plus black & white footage of trolley buses' final parade journey round Bournemouth.
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Added 21 February 2009

Christchurch Trolleybus Turntable
Where's the turntable?
Christchurch, High Street, the Trolleybus c1950
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Added 09 January 2009

The Trolley Bus Turntable At Christchurch
I moved to Boscombe near Christchurch in 1954 when my father's job with Williams Deacons Bank took him to their newly opened Bournemouth Branch. I was amazed! I was just eight years old and all I had ever really known in the way of public transport were the London Transport red or green buses, plus some red trams and trolleybuses. Yet here in Christchurch were bright yellow buses and ...see more
Christchurch, High Street, the Trolleybus c1950
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Added 13 October 2008

Part Of My Childhood
I spent many enjoyable school holidays in this town.  My Uncle had a store called Staggs the Drapery and clothing store.  Back then we used to spend many an hour wandering over to the Quay & the Priory.  We also used to take the ferry over the Avon into Southbourne where my Aunt lived. Then we would walk to Hengisbury Head. Sometimes we would fish in the Avon.  It was a wonderful little town and when I ...see more
Christchurch, High Street c1955
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Added 29 September 2006