From workplace disputes and new technology to community projects, local campaigns and unforgettable moments on the high street, these photographs capture the people, places and stories that shaped the Black Country and Staffordshire in 1990.
It was a year of change and debate, with residents taking to the streets over the Poll Tax, businesses investing for the future, and communities coming together to raise money, celebrate achievements and protect the things that mattered to them.
From Walsall and Wolverhampton to Cannock, Dudley and beyond, this collection offers a fascinating snapshot of everyday life - the familiar faces, local landmarks and events that many will remember.
Take a look through the gallery and see which memories come flooding back. Do you recognise anyone or have your own memories of these places and events? Share them in the comments.
Take a trip back to Brierley Hill in the 1980s and explore our nostalgic gallery here.
- You can enjoy this and more with our weekly FREE Nostalgia Newsletter - with scores of archive pictures and exclusive features on the history of Wolverhampton, Staffordshire and the Black Country - all sent to your inbox every week. Sign up here.
13. The queues that stretched through Wolverhampton Civic Centre
Long queues formed inside Wolverhampton Civic Centre on Poll Tax payment day in May 1990, as residents waited to pay the controversial Community Charge. Frustration grew as delays stretched through the building, with one woman summing up the mood by saying: "They should pay us for having to do this." The photograph captures the tension surrounding one of the most controversial policies of the era, with many people across Wolverhampton, the Black Country and beyond voicing their opposition in different ways. Do you remember the long queues or the debate over the Poll Tax? | Express & Star archive
14. The day The Stone Roses came to Wolverhampton court
Members of The Stone Roses are pictured outside Wolverhampton Magistrates’ Court on March 6, 1990, as they faced criminal damage charges following an incident involving the offices and cars of their former record label, FM-Revolver. Left to right are Gary Mountfield, Ian Brown, Jonathon Squire and Alan Wren. The photograph captures a moment from the band’s early rise, just as they were becoming one of the most talked-about names in British music. Do you remember seeing The Stone Roses play in the Midlands during their early days? | Express & Star archive
15. The young face at the heart of Birmingham’s Poll Tax protest
A young protester is pictured during an Anti-Poll Tax demonstration in Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, in May 1990. The protest was part of a wider campaign against the controversial charge, which had sparked anger and demonstrations across the country. Thousands of people from across the region travelled to Birmingham to take part, including campaigners from Wolverhampton and the Black Country, as opposition to the Poll Tax brought communities together. The photograph captures the strong feelings of a generation who took to the streets to make their voices heard. Do you remember the Poll Tax protests in Birmingham or your own community? | Express & Star archive
16. The protest where bills went up in smoke
Staffordshire bull terrier Deefa is pictured with protesters in the background during a mass bill-burning demonstration at Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, in May 1990. The event was organised by anti-Poll Tax campaigners, with demonstrators gathering to make their opposition to the controversial charge known. The photograph captures a moment from one of the most debated political campaigns of the early 1990s. Do you remember the Poll Tax protests and how they affected your area? | Express & Star archive