A culturally-inspired look back through our archives
With its stunning landscapes and rich heritage, North Yorkshire has long inspired writers, poets, and artists.
Its rugged dales and coastline have served as the muse for countless creatives. Now, delving into the county’s archives reveals rare artistic gems that showcase its history.
Among these treasures is A New Book of Beasts, an 18th century drawing manual from the Chaloner family, featuring animal illustrations like tigers to inspire budding artists. From John Jackson R.A.'s archives, we find a brochure for the 63rd Royal Academy exhibition in 1839 as well as a portrait of him by the Revd. David McNicholl.
Other highlights include an 1840s watercolour sketch of Moreby flower garden by Henrietta Matilda Crompton and a photo of potter Terry Shone in his Grassington workshop.
The archives also include a 1933 watercolour of Hubberholme from ‘Yorkshire’, a book of paintings by Gordon Home and a 1777 portrait of the Duchess of Devonshire at Buxton by Thomas Orde, 1st Baron Bolton. He enjoyed drawing his friends, relatives and people encountered during his travels in Europe during the 18th century.
These archive pieces offer a peek into North Yorkshire’s enduring artistic legacy, celebrating the creative spirit inspired by its landscapes and communities.
The archive images on this page are among more than 6,500 available at the County Record Office. Browse the collection or buy photos.
If you have any further information about any of the images on this page, our archivists would be keen to hear about it. Please email yny@northyorks.gov.uk