blyth buildings

[Phodgetts]

This image is Edith and William with their pit pony show. I am not sure whether it was in the first Hippodrome on Union Street or the second one in Rink Street. I think probably the first.

I think I ought probably to leave this subject alone now since it is diverting the original subject of this thread.

I think it is such a shame that current younger generations of folk in Blyth do not know what a special town it has been and still could be but for a little ingenuity and foresight. Blyth was a forward thinking and innovative town, embracing new technologies at the first opportunity. I know it has hard times, but it could be turned around.

P

[TriciaK]

There was another theatre in Blyth with a connection to Stan Laurel:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjfyuN1PN3Y
My Mum and Dad met there while taking part in an amateur show, he played the piano, she was in the chorus.

[Phodgetts]

Yes TK, I was thrilled when I first learned about this a few years ago. Blyth should be cashing in on that fact, and there should be a statue of Stan in the market square which is just yards away from where the theatre stood. I think there is a sculpture of him in Ridley Park. Blyth should be having Laurel and Hardy events with look a like competitions and awards. It could be fun and draw in crowds. If you get people in the heart of the town, hopefully they will spend money.

P

[dolly dimples]

  Your like a magician PH, you keep pulling them out the hat!
    Great picture that, and real ponies too !
  I agree that Blyth should be keeping our history going..... but one lives in hope!
    My one regret is that i had no interest in history until I started my family history, and now I cant get enough, ah well !  many thanks for all your time spent here.  Dolly
   

[wombat87]

Phodgetts would you be able to email me? As my great great Grandfather was William Tudor and I would love to know about him. As my grandad does not know much either and if you are able to help that would be great.

[(David) Jim Smith]

Re William Tudor and his circus - I am researching Tudor's Circus in Cambridge and would very much like to get hold of your photos of the Blyth circus building and of William and Edith and the ponies.

I understand I have to make three posts before I can use private messaging, so this is my third! I have found that William Tudor had temporary circus buildings here in Cambridge in 1888 (with Charlie Keith), 1893 and 1895. In 1896 he built a permanent circus building and ran it until 1891. I'm happy to share any material if you are interested.