In a rare opportunity to own a piece of local history, Parker Fine Art Auctions will be presenting an exceptional collection of pictures and printed materials showcasing the social, military, and commercial history of Farnham and its surrounding areas from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

This unparalleled collection, meticulously gathered over several decades, will go under the hammer in multiple lots on Thursday, November 2. The assortment includes a comprehensive pictorial history featuring several hundred postcards, engravings, indentures, posters, maps, catalogs, and books, all shedding light on the rich heritage of Farnham and villages within a ten-mile radius.

The posters in the collection provide captivating insights into the local life of the 19th and early 20th centuries. One poster calls on men aged 19 to 40 to join the Hampshire Regiment and fight in India, explicitly stating that "minor defects will no longer disqualify". Another advertises a circus event in Odiham, boasting a "Colossal Amalgamation of Novelties and Startling Features", including a troupe of "20 educated Irish terriers".

These are just two of the many postcards to be auctioned at Parker Fine Art Auctions
These are just two of the many postcards to be auctioned at Parker Fine Art Auctions (Parker Fine Art Auctions)

Noteworthy historical moments are also highlighted, such as the celebrations for King Edward VII's coronation in Hartley Wintney, featuring a "Boys’ treacle and bun race" and prizes for the "Best decorated house front" and "Best decorated ladies’ bicycle". The Farnham Bonfire Club's grand celebration of the 260th anniversary of the Gunpowder Plot, delayed by a day to November 6, issued a warning on the poster, threatening immediate action for anyone causing damage during the festivities.

The collection of postcards unveils different views of Farnham from a century ago, featuring streets, buildings, and shops, including familiar names like Rangers, Elphicks, and Pullingers. Some postcards delve into the humorous side of local life, depicting scenes like nurses at the military hospital at Waverley Abbey and students at Farnham boys’ grammar school.

A hand-written note from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle from his home in Hindhead where he lived from 1897-1907 and where he wrote many of his most famous works
A hand-written note from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle from his home in Hindhead where he lived from 1897-1907 andwhere he wrote many of his most famous works (Parker Fine Art Auctions)

The villages surrounding Farnham are also showcased in the wealth of postcards, accompanied by printed material related to estate sales, catalogs, handwritten receipts from local businesses, and even a personal note from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, penned during his residence in Hindhead from 1897-1907. This period saw the creation of some of Doyle's most famous literary works.

For those eager to secure a piece of this unique historical collection, Parker Fine Art Auctions can be contacted for more information about estimates and lots at 01252 203020 or [email protected]. Don't miss the opportunity to explore and own these fascinating glimpses into the past.

Upcoming Auctions:

  • Thursday, November 2
  • Thursday, December 7

Valuation Days:

  • Saturday, October 28
  • Sunday, October 29