The Bamforth Story: how Holmfirth entertained the nation

Join Katina Bill, Senior Curator at Kirklees Museums and Galleries, and local silent film expert and musician Dr Jonny Best, for a fascinating journey into one of Holmfirth's most unique heritage stories — the work of Bamforth & Co. 

Founded by James Bamforth in 1870, the company played a leading role in three creative industries: lantern slides, early cinema, and picture postcards. From its beginnings with sentimental Victorian scenes to the mid-twentieth century bawdy seaside cards, Bamforth’s vast postcard output is a cultural history of twentieth-century Britain. 

Katina will give an overview of the company’s history, and explore how the company's postcards depicted daily life, while also becoming part of it — sent, collected, and treasured by generations. Jonny will present a selection of Bamforth's lantern slides and short films, tracing their significance in the story of early twentieth century entertainment and the emergence of cinema, and bringing them to life with live musical accompaniment. 

Join us for an engaging event rich in imagery and live music, celebrating a remarkable chapter in the valley's history — when one man's entrepreneurial vision ignited a century of creativity in the heart of Holmfirth whose impact would be felt throughout the country and beyond.

Part of Holme Valley Heritage Week and Heritage Open Days