You can almost hear the hustle and bustle of shoppers and traders on the city centre thoroughfare in these photos which rewind to 1937. The images 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: Unseen photos chart of a golden age of Leeds pub culture LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
7. Briggate in 1937
The Kardomah Cafe which opened in 1908 and closed in 1965. Next is Bon Marche chambers, Fleming's hairdresser and also Mutual Clothing and Furnishing Club. Then Bon Marche shop, ladieswear, with signs stating 'Expiration of Lease', 'Great closing down sale.' Within two days, the premises had been taken by Philips Furnishing Co. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Briggate in 1937
J.L.White, ladies clothing store pictured in September 1937. Displays can be seen in the shop windows, many signs for Telemac waterproof coats. This is now part of the Victoria Quarter. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Briggate in 1937
The junction of Queen Victoria Street and Briggate in September 1937. A display cabinet on the wall of J.L. White, ladies clothing store, has silk stockings Pure Silk hose 7.5p per pair. A street sign above it gives direction Leading to the Market. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Briggate in 1937
Bon Marche pictured in July 1937. Dolcis Shoe Company is just visible in the far left. The Great Universal Store is just visible on the far right. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
11. Briggate in 1937
The junction of Queen Victoria Street and Briggate looking onto Fredrick Lawrence Ltd, furniture store in October 1937. Whites, Clothing Store can be seen on the right on Queen Victoria Street. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Enjoyed this gallery?
Share your feedback with Andrew Hutchinson via email at: [email protected] or tweet him - @AndyHutchYPN | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net