1982 marked the 50th anniversary of city centre department store Lewis's with celebrations held on Dortmund Square. Lewis's on The Headrow was the place to go for generations of aspirational shoppers and bargain-hunters all keen for their fix of retail therapy. It opened on the newly-widened Headrow in September 1932 with more than 120,000 there to enjoy the ceremony. It served the city for more than 60 years before becoming an Allders in the mid-1990s. They photos showcase the celebrations and also the famous Christmas displays. They are published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. They also run heritage blog The Secret Library Leeds, which provides a behind the scenes look at the Central Library and highlights from its special collections, including rare books hidden away in the stacks. READ MORE: 18 photo memories of Lewis's LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
1. Lewis's in Leeds
Santa entertains the younger members of the crowd. A number of balloons are printed with '1932 -50 years-1982 Golden Anniversary'. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
2. Lewis's in Leeds
Santa helps to conduct the jazz band playing in Dortmund Square. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
4. Lewis's in Leeds
Santa entertains the crowds at the 50th anniverary celebrations. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
5. Lewis's in Leeds
Santa receives smiles from the crowd as he helps conduct the jazz band. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
6. Lewis's in Leeds
Christmas displays in the Perfumery department. A fountain with tropical plants is in the foreground and there are gold reindeer heads above the merchandise. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net