Have you seen these amazing postcards at United’s Museum?

A valuable source of historical information, postcards like the one pictured above also provide a snapshot of what Old Trafford looked like when it first opened its doors. The image used on the postcard was taken by Manchester-based photographer R. Banks, and shows the Main Stand, now Sir Bobby Charlton Stand, in its full splendour together with proud club officials getting ready for the first match.

Designed by renowned stadium architect Archibald Leitch, Old Trafford cost over £62,000 to construct and, when opened, it featured the country’s most modern facilities, including a private press box, gymnasium and a billiard room. With its innovative curved design, the stadium could hold up to 80,000 fans, including 12,000 seated in the covered Main Stand, pictured above.

SEASIDE SOUVENIR

The beginning of the 20th Century saw the introduction of fast and affordable printing technology, which allowed people to personalise postcards with their own photos. With many photographers flooding to the seaside resorts, there were plenty of opportunities for holiday-makers to turn their postcards into souvenirs.