Image Licensing : Calenick, Cornwall. Early 1900s

EDITORS COMMENTS

Step back in time to Calenick, Cornwall, in the early 1900s. This print captures the heart of this charming village, showcasing its rich history and picturesque beauty. In the foreground, three curious boys lean against a bridge, their eyes fixed on the photographer capturing this timeless moment. The focal point of the image is undoubtedly the magnificent Clock Tower that proudly stands tall amidst Calenick House and fields stretching into the distance. A symbol of an era long gone by, this clock tower once belonged to a prominent tin smelting works that played a vital role in Cornwall's industrial heritage. Operating for over two centuries before closing its doors in 1891, it served as a hub where locally mined tin ore was transformed into gleaming ingots of white tin before being shipped from Truro. Surrounded by quaint cottages with their traditional thatched roofs lining the streets, this scene evokes nostalgia for simpler times when life moved at a slower pace. The tranquility captured within these frames invites us to imagine ourselves strolling through these historic streets and immersing ourselves in Cornish culture. This remarkable photograph was skillfully taken by Arthur William Jordan – an artist who expertly documented Cornwall's landscapes and communities during his prolific career. Preserved now within Royal Cornwall Museum's collection, it serves as both a testament to our past and an invitation to explore our shared heritage.