Unseen Formby by Gillian Morgan

Unseen Formby by Gillian Morgan and Adam Jones is a short book published by the local library which I picked up from the shelf while I was getting my reserved books. It’s a very short book, available only locally, so I will not write a long review for it. I would say that I encourage people to read about their local history and books like this are a great way to unwind for an hour or so.

The book contains 44 of previously unpublished photographs of Formby. Formby was initially a Viking village close to what is today Liverpool. It grew after WW2. Today is a lovely place to visit, with nice cafes, pubs, and restaurants. There is an important National Trust place with a wood where red squirrels have sanctuary and offers access to the beach.

I found really interesting pictures included in this book. I will talk about 2 of them. First of all is picture number 25, of a WW2 German reconnaissance map. What is interesting besides seeing the map, is that this opened in December 1941 and a
Polish Squadron was the first unit to use the base there.

The second picture is a family picture, of a wealthy family entertaining guests. The picture was taken by E. Chambré Hardman, a photographer from Liverpool. His memorial house – The Hardmans’ House – is now a museum. I liked it very much, the story of his wife and him working together, in early to mid 1900s.

Unseen Formby by Gillian Morgan

Details about the picture: –
My rating: 5/5 Stars
Would I recommend it: Yes, to all living locally
Published by: Sefton Council
Year it was published: 2024
Format: Paperback
Genre(s): Local history
Pages: 34

About the author: Gillian Morgan has published a few books on local history.
Website & Social Media Links: –