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.
33. A Wolverhampton building scene that takes you back to the 1990s
The Queen’s Building in Pipers Row, Wolverhampton, is pictured in the 1990s, with two cars from the era parked outside adding an extra glimpse of everyday life at the time. The image captures a familiar city centre view before the streets, shops and vehicles around it changed with the passing years. It is the small details that often bring old photographs to life. Do you remember the Queen’s Building or travelling through Pipers Row in the 1990s? | Express & Star archive
34. The children bringing a local beauty spot to life
Francesca Wagstaff is pictured with colourful banners created by school children from Sandwell and Walsall to showcase Beacon Regional Park in September 1990. The artwork was displayed at Wednesbury Art Gallery, celebrating the Aldridge beauty spot through the creativity and imagination of local pupils. The photograph captures a time when schools and communities came together to highlight the places they were proud of. Do you remember visiting Beacon Regional Park or taking part in school projects like this? | Express & Star archive
35. The Cannock factory dispute that brought workers together
A crowd gathers outside Britool Ltd’s tool factory on Walsall Road, Churchbridge, Cannock, in November 1990 during a dispute that saw workers sacked after taking part in strike action. The scene captures a tense moment outside one of the area’s workplaces, as employees and supporters made their voices heard. The photograph reflects the industrial disputes that affected many communities during this period. Do you remember Britool or the strikes that took place at local factories in the 1990s? | Express & Star archive
36. The day Dudley’s mayor tried his hand at glass blowing
Councillor Cyril Woodall, Mayor of Dudley, is pictured trying his hand at glass blowing alongside third-year student Stephen Gillies and Councillor Jack Wilson during the opening of a new Glass Design Centre at Wolverhampton Polytechnic’s School of Art and Design in November 1990. The centre was created through a joint project with Dudley Council and funding from the European Regional Development Fund, highlighting the region’s links with creative industries and design. The photograph captures a moment when traditional skills and modern education came together. Do you remember visiting the School of Art and Design or seeing glass-making demonstrations in the area? | Express & Star archive