If you ever wondered what Union Street in Ryde looked like in the 1900s, or wanted to see an image of Newport High Street being flooded half a century ago, a new display is giving a glimpse into the past.

From 14 January, Isle of Wight Council’s Heritage Service and Library Service is hosting a display at Ryde and Newport libraries called ‘Turn Back Time – the High Street’.

Inspired by the BBC’s ‘The High Street’ programme, the display compares the modern high street with its major retailers and bustling activity, to the more sedate and personal high street more than a century ago.

The displays include a slideshow of photographs and also a number of museum artefacts. The exhibition was also made possible thanks to the work of Heritage Service volunteer Holly Medland. She spent days collecting images from the County Record Office, Museum Service, Local Studies Collection and Archaeology Unit and also worked with local heritage groups.

‘Turn Back Time – The High Street’ will be on display from 14 January and will be available until the end of February.

More details can be obtained by contacting the Corina Westwood at IW Council’s Heritage Service on (01983) 821000 or via [email protected]

Opening times
Monday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Tuesday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Wednesday 9.00am - 8.00pm
Thursday CLOSED
Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm
Sunday 10.00am - 1.00pm

Image: © Used with permission of Isle of Wight Council