Llandudno The Postcard Collection

Overview

From as early as 1864, Llandudno, in North Wales, was known as "Queen of the Welsh Resorts" and today it continues to attract millions of visitors every year. Holidaymakers are drawn by its glorious setting, framed by the Great Orme and Little Orme headlands, and attractions including two beaches, a Grade-II listed pier, and its proximity to Snowdonia and the World Heritage town of Conwy. The postcard first appeared in the 19th century and became very important to the holiday trade of the town. Millions of cards were sold, which were, in effect, worldwide advertising for the resort. From early on, colored pictures were favored but as there was no color photography these were mostly hand colored. One of Llandudno's interesting people was G.R. Thompson, who had a newsagent's business and became the biggest commissioner and publisher of postcards. He crowned himself "the postcard king of Llandudno" and his cards all featured his image on the reverse. In this book, local author John Lawson-Reay draws on his extensive collection of postcards to provide a colorful chronicle of Llandudno's history. As well as chapters devoted to the promenade and parades, the beach and boats, the Great Orme and the pier, the author also focuses on the town center and significant buildings, together with the outlying areas. For residents and holidaymakers alike, this is a fascinating and evocative portrait of a favorite seaside resort across the ages.

Author Biography

John Lawson-Reay was a self employed freelance press photographer and film maker in Llandudno and worked as a contractor to BBC TV for 37 years, twice winning Royal TV Society awards. He is Chairman of the Llandudno and Colwyn Bay History Society and a trustee of Llandudno museum and lectures on local history as well as writing a monthly column for the North Wales Weekly News.