Andrew Simpson: Posters …. armchairs ….. heaps of bric-a-brac and the grandeur of Victoria Baths

Wednesday 12 June 2024

Posters …. armchairs ….. heaps of bric-a-brac and the grandeur of Victoria Baths

So, I have been gently taken to task by a Facebook chum for omitting to point out that the very successful Vintage Fairs at Victoria Baths benefit both the vintage traders and the venue. *

Three glass jars, two candle holders and a changing room

And I own up, it was a glaring omission particularly as it was clear that our entrance ticket went into the pot for the restoration and maintenance of this former swimming baths.

Moreover, the place is a wonderful venue for those traders selling interesting, “things”, many of which were once commonplace objects in our house in the middle decades of the last century, along with those stunning posters and other cultural ephemera.

At the time I was over sniffy at the way the objects of my childhood and adolescence were now on sale again, picked over by generations who hadn’t been born when these desirable and collectable items were first produced.

Iconic film poster, 1924

But then as my friend pointed out many of the things were far sturdier than their modern counterparts and in an age which recognises the value of recycling it makes sense to offer them up again.

Hamlet and other attractions, 2024

And as if to underline that observation as we wandered the stalls two young women were walking out with a set of elegant looking kitchen chairs, another was purchasing a 1950s guide to Manchester, and loads of people were admiring a mix of original posters being sold by Mr. Hales.

So, to quote an American newspaper headline “We All Win”.

To which of course there is the architecture of Victoria Baths, which are an insight into how we once did public buildings.

Not that I am going to rehearse its story that is best left to the charity charity which has saved and works to preserve the place. **