The Sowmans began trading in January 1889.
J W & E Sowman – Ironmongers
The LMS Railway: Northampton-Olney-Bedford
An abridged version of Ivor Neale’s article ‘A view from Olney’ written in 2004 .
Olney’s Market Place
The Market Place – the reason for Olney’s status as a town – has always been the hub and centre of its life.
Olney Lace Factory (1928-43)
This summary account is accompanied by a voiceover which can be used in conjunction with the text and images.
Olney’s Leisure Pursuits after WW2 (1945- 60)
This section covering Olney’s leisure pursuits after WW2 is included in it entirety as it contains a large quantity of images with a relativel low quantity of explanatory text. Olney Old Tyme Dancing Club enjoying their photo shoot! (Early 1950s)
The Wide High Street
In centuries past, the High Street comprised three elements, the most significant being the stream which flowed down the west side of the High Street with dilapidated banks propped up with wicker work with overhanging willow trees.