Step back to 1962 and discover a fascinating snapshot of Wolverhampton, Staffordshire and the Black Country at a time of change, confidence and industrial strength. These photographs capture the people, places and moments that shaped the region more than 60 years ago.
From the roaring furnaces of Bilston Steelworks and busy press lines in Willenhall to the opening of new schools, factories and industrial centres, the pictures reveal a region at the heart of Britain's manufacturing might. But alongside the industry are the stories of everyday life that made these communities unique.
You'll find Wolverhampton's Caribbean community celebrating Jamaican Independence at Wulfrun Hall, the centuries-old tradition of the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance, community gatherings, familiar faces and moments that capture the character of the region in 1962.
Whether these scenes bring back memories or offer a glimpse into a bygone age, this gallery is a celebration of the people, traditions and industries that helped shape Wolverhampton, Staffordshire and the Black Country. If these photographs spark a memory, we'd love to hear your stories in the comments.
- Explore these 59 nostalgic pictures capturing the workplaces and industries that shaped the Black Country and Staffordshire in the 1980s.
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5. Shhh! Parking up for a quiet read in Stafford
A classic saloon car and a solitary motorcycle are parked along Eastgate Street outside the William Salt Library in Stafford during February 1962. Housed in an elegant Georgian building, the famous research library was established to preserve local historical records, manuscripts, and topographical prints. A vintage illuminated "Keep Left" bollard stands in the foreground, adding to the charm of this mid-century street scene. The photograph offers a peaceful snapshot of the historic market town before modern traffic and road layouts altered the surrounding town centre. Do you remember visiting the William Salt Library back in the 1960s, or can you identify the classic car model parked along the kerb? | Express & Star archive
6. Booking a ticket to anywhere at Don Everall in Wolverhampton
The smart, modern shopfront of Don Everall World Travel Agents welcomes holidaymakers in Wolverhampton in November 1962. A household name across the West Midlands, the business was famous for its vast fleet of red and cream coaches, day trips, and package holidays. The large picture window displays advertisements for ocean cruises and coach travel, showcasing a time when booking a getaway meant a trip into town to chat with your local agent in person. Do you remember booking a coach trip or a family holiday at Don Everall back in the 1960s? | Express & Star archive
7. Going out with a bang at Brereton Colliery
Plumes of dust and debris fill the air as a huge 130ft chimney comes crashing down during the clearance of Brereton Colliery in 1962. Men from 213 Field Squadron, drawn from Cannock and Stafford, carried out the extensive preparation work prior to the controlled demolition. The squad was also tasked with disposing of most of the disused pit's remaining surface installations, bringing a dramatic close to centuries of mining history at the site. Do you remember the day the old chimney came down, or did you know anyone who worked at Brereton Colliery? | Express & Star archive
8. Stopping traffic with a smile and a sign in Halesowen
Standing proud with his 'Stop Children Crossing' sign, 75 year old school crossing warden Mr Bill Pitchford guides local schoolchildren safely across the road in December 1962. At the time of the photograph, Mr Pitchford was celebrating an impressive seven year streak without a single accident on his watch. His dedication came amidst a bit of local debate, as some Halesowen wardens found themselves under fire from critics claiming they were over enthusiastic when taking control of passing traffic. Do you remember Mr Pitchford or any of the other lollipop men and women who kept you safe on the school run in the 1960s? | Express & Star archive