The story of the London town of Brentford, rich in history, transport, sport and architecture is told in a fascinating exhibition in an upstairs gallery at the London Water and Steam Museum near Kew Bridge, put together by Brentford Thru My Lens creator Karen Reader..
Whether your interest is in the historical or current fortunes of Premier League side Brentford FC, or in the canal and railway networks, Reader has curated some unusual objects alongside a memory wall and photographs.
The exhibition also recalls and celebrates the art deco ‘Golden Mile’, which still boasts the former Coty and Pyrene factories and once had buildings used by Firestone tyres and Smiths crisps,
The ephemera relating to Brentford FC includes an appreciation of last season, an aerial photograph of former ground of over 100 years, Griffin Park, and a collection of match programmes loaned by co-curator John Hirdle.
The town’s place in the historic county of Middlesex is noted, and there is even the costume of local entertainer and raconteur Alfred Pearce.
The medicinal properties of Lucozade – until a few years ago, a replica of the old advertising sign could be seen on the Great West Road gives rise to many memories for those of a certain age.
Access to the exhibition comes as part of a day ticket to the full museum: highly recommended for engines, pumps eand machinery. For more from Brentford Thru My Lens you can follow on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
This community exhibition is currently on to early July, with details here.
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