Lancashire began the 20th century as an industrial hub centred on traditional cotton mills and textiles. But after the First World War, there was a decline of the textile industry, partly due to competition from overseas and the Great Depression. It led to the closure of many mills and Lancashire diversified it’s industry. These photos focus on the cotton mills, mining towns, the wars, leisure time on the coast and, of course, the people of the century. They are a wonderful collection of pictures from the Getty Archive.
5. Historcial Lancashire
Four young lads in an cobbled alley between the old back to back terrace houses in Burnley, Lancashire | Getty Images
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6. Historical Lancashire
A 'Safety First' lesson in progress at Layton Junior School, Blackpool, Lancashire. A group of youngsters watch a teacher move toy cars on a model street | Getty Images
7. Historical Lancashire
Bathers at Southport lido, Lancashire, play ring-a-roses in 1917 | Getty Images
8. Historical Lancashire
26th January 1937: Billy Boy, who belongs to the headmistress of St Cuthbert's school at Darwen near Blackburn, has hardly missed a lesson since he was a puppy and likes to sit in on classes. | Getty Images