Step back in time with a nostalgic look at everyday life, local industry and community spirit across Walsall and the surrounding area between 1960 and 1965.
From high streets and historic landmarks to factory floors, royal visits and familiar faces, these photographs capture a changing Black Country at the start of the 1960s.
Featuring scenes from Aldridge, Bloxwich, Darlaston and Brownhills to many other places across the area, the collection offers a fascinating glimpse of places and moments that have since disappeared or changed beyond recognition.
Take a trip down memory lane, see how many familiar faces and places you can spot, and share your memories in the comments.
- Travel back to Wolverhampton in 1969 with these 61 pictures, guaranteed to bring back memories. View them here.
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37. Locking down success on Wood Street
A row of classic British saloons lines the kerb outside the sprawling Yale Lockworks on Wood Street in Willenhall during 1962. Renowned globally as the ultimate hub for security hardware, Willenhall earned its status as the lockmaking capital of the nation, with Yale standing out as one of the area's largest industrial employers. The impressive multi-storey factory complex bustled with thousands of local lockmakers and brass founders, keeping the Black Country firmly at the heart of British manufacturing heritage. Did you or any of your relatives ever work at the Yale factory in Willenhall? | Express & Star archive
38. A magical glow over the boathouse lake
Fairyland illuminations cast shimmering reflections across the water at Walsall Arboretum ahead of the annual autumn event in September 1960. Strings of glowing bulbs line the rustic boathouse roof and surrounding woodland, setting a enchanting scene for thousands of local families drawn to the evening spectacle. A highlight of the town's social calendar, the brilliant light displays transformed the park into a dazzling wonderland every year, creating cherished memories for generations of visitors. Did you ever wrap up warm for an evening stroll through the Walsall Illuminations? | Express & Star archive
39. An unusual attraction on the forecourt
Young Phillip Harrison peers curiously down the barrel of a First World War German trench mortar displayed outside Brownhills Car Sales in August 1965. Serving as a rather striking and unusual ornament to draw in passers-by and motor trade customers, the heavy 1914–18 relic made quite the talking point along the roadside. The peculiar sight captured the imagination of local motorists and shoppers alike, blending wartime history with a bit of classic Black Country garage enterprise. Do you remember spotting this curious mortar sitting on the forecourt as you passed through Brownhills? | Express & Star archive
40. A royal signature for Willenhall’s historic record
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II signs the official Willenhall visitors' book during her royal tour on May 25, 1962. Looking on attentively is Mr J. R. Riding, Clerk of the Willenhall Urban District Council, who guides the book as the monarch completes the ceremonial signing. The historic moment took place during the Queen’s visit to Wednesfield and the surrounding Black Country, drawing eager crowds of local residents and press photographers thrilled to welcome royalty to the area. Do you remember turned out to catch a glimpse of the Queen during her 1962 visit to the district? | Express & Star archive