The industrial heart of Lancashire, Preston was known for its booming cotton and engineering industries, both vital to the local economy. As the town's factories thrived, so did its community spirit. People would flock to Preston’s bustling markets, with the indoor and outdoor markets offering everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods.
The late 1950s saw significant developments in Preston’s infrastructure. New housing estates were being built to accommodate the growing population, and the town's transport links were improving, with regular bus and rail services connecting the town to the wider region.
Preston North End, the town's beloved football club, continued to draw large crowds to Deepdale Stadium, while local schools and parks buzzed with activity as young families flourished.
The Harris Museum, with its grand architecture, remained a cultural centrepiece, offering art, history, and education to all. Meanwhile, Avenham and Miller Parks provided tranquil green spaces for relaxation and family outings.
These years were a vibrant chapter in Preston's history, blending tradition and modernity as the town forged ahead into the future. Enjoy a nostalgic look back with this collection of archive images from 1957 and 1958!
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5. Lune Street, Preston c.1957 Taken from Friargate looking towards the Public Hall. Pegrams grocers occupy the corner of Lune Street an Friargate. Next door is Singers Army Stores. Other than the facade of the Public Hall, this entire block was swept away to make room for the Ringway road scheme
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6. Todayâs view shows the streets and backs of houses in Avenham, Preston, between 1957 and 1961. Picture courtesy of the Avenham Redevelopment Study and Preston Digital Archive.
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7. The Duke of Cambridge P.H. 12-16 Cambridge Street, Preston. New years eve 1957. Mrs. Eugenia Robinson 4th from left. Courtesy of Mrs. P. Robinson
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8. Arsenal goalkeeper Kelsey dives to prevent Sammy Taylor, PNE, getting to the ball at Highbury. Also in the picture is Jimmy Baxter (right) of PNE. Arsenal v Preston, February 19, 1957.
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