Retro Sheffield: 12 amazing pictures show what Sheffield was like in the late 19th century and early 20th century

From buildings to residents and transport, these photographs show what Sheffield was like more than 100 years ago.

Published 8th Nov 2022, 06:00 BST

Updated 14th Nov 2022, 19:43 BST

Sheffield significantly contributed to the Industrial Revolution, with many notable inventions being established in the city. The city saw a huge development in its traditional cutlery trade in the 19th century, when stainless steel and crucible steel were developed locally.

Sheffield received its municipal charter in 1843, becoming a city in 1893. Buildings in the city centre include the Grade I listed Town Hall and the Mappin Art Gallery founded in 1875, which is now called West Park Museum.

We have looked through our archives and found some retro photographs of Sheffield between the years 1885 and 1936.

The old High Street in Sheffield in 1885.

1. Sheffield High Street

The old High Street in Sheffield in 1885. Photo: Hulton Archive / Getty Images

Bunting and flags decorate Sheffield Market Place in 1905.

2. Sheffield Market Place

Bunting and flags decorate Sheffield Market Place in 1905. Photo: Hulton Archive / Getty Images

Monument to commemorate the fallen in the Crimean War, Sheffield in 1870.

3. Crimean War Memorial

Monument to commemorate the fallen in the Crimean War, Sheffield in 1870. Photo: Hulton Archive / Getty Images

The Mappin Art Gallery, now known as West Park Museum, in Sheffield, circa 1905.

4. The Mappin Art Gallery

The Mappin Art Gallery, now known as West Park Museum, in Sheffield, circa 1905. Photo: Hulton Archive / Getty Images

Sheffield Town Hall

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.