HNCO has just acquired an extremely rare extensive collection of 100% original large silver gelatin photographs of the 1924 British Empire Exhibition held at Wemberly, UK during 1924. These photographs were taken by the renowned English photographer Campbell Gray with all being from the original glass plates. A large majority of the photo’s depict Australian displays / themes and are fascinating viewing. There are also group photographs of delegates from various countries, Royalty etc. These photographs are in stunning original condition and are a fascinating snapshot of life almost 100 years ago.
The British Empire Exhibition, Wemberly Park, Wemberly UK, opened on the 23/4/1924 and was attended by approx 18 million visitors during 1924. The Exhibition was supposed to end in October of that year, but it was decided to extend it until October 1925, based purely on financial reasoning. When it eventually closed, approx 27 million people had attended over a two year period. In all 56 of the 58 British Territories / Colonies attended, only Gibraltar & Gambia failed to participate. The Irish Free State also did not attend. Australia had one of the largest pavilions which featured numerous themes from areas such as Commerce, Mining, Farming, Machinery etc etc. Some private Australian companies also exhibited.
This photograph depicts an Australian Mining display, which according to the typed information won the “Coal Trophy” for the Mineral section. It measures 21 cms x 16 cms, the photo has been attached to acid free white cardboard backing and was removed from an old photo album. Reflections are from the camera, the photograph is not faded and is crystal clear, looks far better than depicted here.
