Illustrations
We have a collection of over 15,000 images dating from the late eighteenth century to the present day. These include old engravings, modern greetings cards, photographs, postcards and slides. Our photographs cover a wide range of subjects and localities, including some aerial photography. These provide both a current and historical record of the area.Four extensive collections of photographic images are held:
- A.W. Bourne's postcard negatives collection dating mainly from the 1950s.
- Francis Frith's postcards. These were produced on a countrywide basis from the late nineteenth century onwards. They show evocative street scenes for many of our towns and villages.
- The W.H. Brighouse collection reflects his research for the articles he produced for Derbyshire Life and Countryside. They record themes such as bridges, crosses and windmills.
- The Walker collection of Peak District scenes was taken by a Buxton resident in the 1930s.
We add new images to the collection regularly and welcome donations. If you wish you can lend your photographs for copying and return.