Collection:

Number AMHAM: PHO: 9097
Date 1884
About this object This photograph was taken by George Ward, a prolific photographer whose work provides a unique insight into Victorian and early twentieth century life in Amersham. The image shows the Market Hall. Now a Grade II* listed building, it was constructed in 1682 by Sir William Drake as a gift for the townsfolk and is decorated with his arms and the initials WD.

In 1904 it was used to house the fire-engine, hence the fire bell rope shown in the image. The bell was used to announce market days as well as to raise the alarm. The five children shown in the image are dressed in clothes typical of the period. The image also shows some of the shops and pubs of Amersham High Street in the background including The Kings Arms public house which is still there today. The present Amersham Museum site is further down the High Street on the right-hand side.
Made By George Ward
Physical Description A black and white photograph