Exploring Lincoln’s Past and Present

The city of Lincoln is steeped in history, with its stunning cathedral and picturesque streets like Steep Hill. A new exhibition at the Museum of Lincolnshire is giving visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s past, showcasing how its sights and buildings have changed over the last century.

A Journey Through Archives

The exhibition, which runs until August 31st, features dozens of archive photos of Lincoln’s iconic landmarks, including Lincoln Cathedral, alongside modern-day images of the same scenes. Sarah Bone from the County Council, who worked on the project, found the experience of diving into Lincolnshire’s archives fascinating. "It was like stepping into the footsteps of the photographers who captured these incredible pictures over 100 years ago," she said. "Some pictures were definitely easier to recreate than others, but it was a rewarding challenge."

Time Capsules of the Past

The organizers hope that the exhibition will help visitors see local sights in a new light. Each of the photos on display is a valuable time capsule, offering a glimpse into Lincoln’s rich history. Ms. Bone’s favorite photo is a view of Lincoln Cathedral from the Lincolnshire Museum, which shows the area before many of the houses were built on Burton Road. "We had to climb the museum roof to get the same shot, which was an adventure in itself," she added.

Uncovering Hidden Gems

The exhibition is not just about photos; it also features objects that tell the story of Lincoln’s past. One of the quirky items on display is a primitive ice shower that was used on Brayford Pool. These objects, along with the photos, are accompanied by a short film produced by the Lincolnshire Film Archive, which features footage of Lincoln from the 1930s. This unique combination of visuals and artifacts brings the city’s history to life, giving visitors a deeper understanding and appreciation of Lincoln’s evolution over time.