It was a year a city suburb said goodbye to a landmark which had stood proud in the heart of the community before mother nature had her say. Headingley’s Shire Oak had stood tall and proud for 1,000 years before eventually succumb to its age, finally collapsing. This was Leeds in 1941, a year which featured a city brought to its knees by air raids and children enjoying 'seaside' entertainment at Roundhay Park. These photos 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: 33 closed Leeds pubs which will stir fond memories for drinkers LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
9. Leeds in 1941
Fred Mack & Son, Newsagent & Stationers on Brudenell Road in October 1941. The premises also housed the Brudenell Lending Library. Brick structure with blackout markings and broken glass to roof (possibly an air raid shelter ) can be seen on pavement. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Leeds city centre
The junction of Marlborough Street with West Street, which is on the left. Pictured in January 1941. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
11. Bramley
Leeds and Bradford Road in November 1941 showing Ellers Bridge which spans the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Part of the wall is painted in a chequered pattern as a hazard warning; this place has become a notorious accident blackspot. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Leeds city centre
ARP and Rescue services practice the use of stretcher life-line equipment in September 1941. The stretcher has reached the ground with 'casualty'. Men are removing the stretcher form the line. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net