Historic England acquires some of the UK’s oldest photos

Some of the oldest photographs in England, which shows the country’s transformation through the Industrial Revolution, have been acquired by Historic England.

The photographs are part of a collection that includes around 8000 images and was put together over decades by Janette Rosing, a photographic consultant, who has previously worked with the Royal Collection at Windsor Castle, auction houses and museums. The earliest photographs in the collection were taken in the UK in the mid-1830s, others are from the 1860s and later, showing England at a time of great change as the Industrial Revolution took hold of the country.

The collection has been acquired as part of the government’s acquisition in lieu scheme, administered by Arts Council England. The scheme allows individuals to donate important cultural items to museums and galleries in return for a tax reduction and preserve them for the benefit of the public.

Speaking to the Guardian, Ian Savage, the collections manager at Historic England, said: “From maritime scenes by James Mudd to detailed architectural studies by Linnaeus Tripe, each photograph in this exceptional collection offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing Janette Rosing’s expert eye for quality. Rosing’s collection will continue to connect us with our history and inspire future generations to appreciate England’s rich cultural legacy.”