Rejoicing in Ripon: Superb Ripon Library display turns the clock back on the city’s history
People who think that nostalgia isn’t what it used to be may change their minds if they visit a superb new exhibition at Ripon Library.
The display — free to visit — has been created by members of Ripon Civic Society and features an eclectic mix of images from the days of black‑and‑white photography 🖤🤍.
Ripon BID manager Lilla Bathurst told Tim Flanagan of the Rejoicing in Ripon Blog:
“May is Local History and Community Month and the library, which is a priceless source of information about our historic and heritage‑rich city, is hosting a display of rare photographic gems 📸✨ from the Ripon Reviewed archive.”
She added:
“It’s fascinating to turn the clock back 🕰️ to Victorian and Edwardian times and into the 1930s and 1950s, to see images that capture many aspects of life in Ripon — from the giant bells 🔔 that ring out to this day at our magnificent cathedral, to the diverse range of businesses around Market Square and adjoining streets which provided the beating heart ❤️ of the city.
“It’s an exhibition well worth visiting and sits alongside events and activities for all ages 👨👩👧👦 being staged at the library throughout May.”
The Wilfred Owen Connection ✒️🌿
Among the events will be a celebration of the life and work of Wilfred Owen at 10.15am on Tuesday (May 12).
The world‑famous war poet was stationed in Ripon between March and June 1918 while recovering from shell shock.
At his temporary home on Borrage Lane — now marked by a green plaque 🟩 — he drafted works including The Send Off, Mental Cases and Futility. He was also a regular visitor to Ripon Cathedral ⛪, where a bust of him by sculptor Anthony Padgett was unveiled in March 2018 on the 100th anniversary of his birth.
Booking is essential for those wishing to attend the talk.
More details: ripon.library@northyorks.gov.uk or 01609 536623 ☎️
All of the photographic images here are from the Ripon Reviewed archive and can be seen on the display at Ripon Library, part of the events and activities during May for Local History and Community Month.
Bells on the forecourt of Ripon Cathedral 🔔
A 1936 photograph from the days when butchers Appleton’s — famous for their pork pies 🥧 — had a slaughterhouse behind St John’s Chapel in Bondgate.
The Palladium Cinema in Kirkgate showing top Hollywood films in 1952 🎬⭐
From freshly‑made sausages 🌭 to soaps of the day 🧼 and ironmongery items 🔧, Ripon once had shops selling a wide range of goods.
