A groundbreaking new publication is set to revolutionize how we perceive historical urban landscapes, presenting a vivid, multi-layered visual narrative of Worcester’s transformation. This ambitious project, spearheaded by renowned local historian Bob Blandford, defies traditional publishing norms, promising an unparalleled exploration of the city’s evolution through time. It stands as a testament to creative vision, challenging the very conventions of historical documentation and visual storytelling.
Blandford, known for his unconventional and rule-bending approach to chronicling local history, has poured nearly six decades of writing and design experience into this monumental work. His latest endeavor is described as his most creatively demanding to date, pushing the boundaries of what a historical pictorial book can achieve. This innovative spirit is evident throughout the volume, reflecting a deep passion for the subject matter and an unwavering commitment to presenting local history in a fresh, accessible manner.
Modestly titled ‘Bob Backenforth’s definitive ‘Worcester as never seen before’ picture book,’ the volume lives up to its claim with an astounding array of images. Each of its 288 pages is meticulously crafted, featuring multiple layers of photographs that illustrate the dramatic changes specific areas of Worcester have undergone across centuries. This intricate superimposition of historical and contemporary views creates a visually arresting experience, designed to captivate readers and offer profound insights into the city’s enduring legacy of urban development.
The book boasts nearly 1,000 images of old Worcester, many of which are ingeniously superimposed onto modern-day scenes. This technique is not merely an artistic choice; it serves as a powerful didactic tool, enabling readers to directly compare and contrast the architectural, social, and environmental shifts that have shaped the urban fabric. The result is an immersive journey that transcends simple static photographs, inviting a dynamic engagement with Worcester’s past and present through historical photography.
The genesis of this extraordinary project can be traced back to an unexpected surge of public interest. While Blandford was diligently working on a separate volume about Worcester’s pubs, a casual request on the ‘Worcester Secrets’ Facebook page, co-administered by him, garnered almost 300 overwhelmingly positive responses for a ‘then and now’ pictorial book. This spontaneous outpouring of enthusiasm prompted him to temporarily pivot from his original plans, dedicating his efforts to fulfilling this clear community demand.
Driven by this public mandate, Blandford embarked on a mission to create something truly unprecedented, aiming to surpass all his previous publications and any similar works on the market. As his tenth book in twelve years, the pressure was on to deliver an exceptional product. His ambition was not just to document history but to redefine its presentation, ensuring that this new book would stand out not only locally but on a national scale for its innovative approach to Worcester history.
While some vintage photographs of Worcester within the book may have been previously published, including in Blandford’s own earlier works, their presentation in this novel format is entirely unique. The strategic superimposition and thematic layering elevate these familiar images into a new realm of visual discovery. Blandford asserts that no other publication, either regionally or nationally, has attempted such a comprehensive and visually dynamic exploration of urban historical change.
This meticulously researched and creatively designed volume promises to be an indispensable resource for local historians, urban planners, and anyone with a profound interest in the evolution of cities. It serves as a compelling reminder of the continuous interplay between time, place, and human endeavor, offering a fresh lens through which to appreciate Worcester’s rich and multifaceted heritage and its impact on society.
