The photo was taken at Meanwood Park Hospital, often referred to as Meanwood Colony, for the mentally handicapped. It was housed in the former Meanwood Hall and expanded to include ’villas’ in the grounds by 1941 to accommodate a growing number of patients, eventually closing later in the 20th century. This photo was taken in the autumn of 1948 and is one of 11 photos showcasing life around Meanwood during the decade. The images are a mix from the YEP archive and others 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: 21 magnificent memories take you back to Meanwood in the 1990s LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
7. Meanwood in the 1940s
The footbridge over Meanwood Beck near the Dye Works on Wood Lane pictured in December 1948. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Meanwood in the 1940s
This footbridge was part of a path which led from Meanwood Road up on to Woodhouse Ridge and Batty's Wood. The Yorkshire Switchgear and Engineering Co Ltd was on a site which fronted on to Meanwood Road, the bridge was to the rear of the factory and was known locally as the Switchgear bridge. Pictured in March 1940. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Meanwood in the 1940s
Meanwood looking towards Weetwood and Cookridge in May 1949. | YPN Photo: YPN
10. Meanwood in the 1940s
Congregation members from Holy Trinity Church pictured in 1949. | YPN Photo: YPN
11. Meanwood in the 1940s
The south-west side of Meanwood Road pictured in June 1949. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Meanwood in the 1940s
The Modern Stores at 440 Meanwood Road pictured in January 1940. On the side of the building are adverts for Wincarnis and Ronuk floor polish. A footpath (not in view) led along the side of the building up to Potternewton. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net