This London-type taxi came into service at the end of the 1940s boasting a high body and cut away luggage compartment which was claimed would be help customers make it immediately recognisable.. It was an attribute which was hoped at the time would reduce ’dead’ mileage. It is one of 12 photo gems showcasing a year in the life of Leeds city centre in 1949. Landmarks and streets featured include the Civic Hall and Town Hall as well as The Headrow, Vicar Lane and Wade Lane. The images are a mix from the YEP archive and others published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. They also run heritage blog The Secret Library Leeds, which provides a behind the scenes look at the Central Library and highlights from its special collections, including rare books hidden away in the stacks. READ MORE: 43 closed Leeds pubs which will stir fond memories for drinkers LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP NEWSLETTERS: Sign up to free news and sport emails
7. Leeds city centre in 1949
Wade Lane in February 1949 showing Central Garage Ltd., an Austin cars dealer. It is a stone built building with large windows revealing cars for sale inside. Woodhouse Lane runs aong the left hand side of the garage. This is now the site of the St. John's Centre. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Leeds city centre in 1949
Albion Street in August 1949. Shops and businesses in focus include George L. Barker, accountant and Bradbury & Bulmer, tailors and breeches makers. Above are the premises of J.W. Burton, commission agent and Aubrey Kremer, solicitor. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Leeds city centre in 1949
The interior of a tram depot showing several trams, including in the centre Horsfield car no. 177, which first ran in Leeds on May 30, 1931. To the left is no. 227, also a Horsfield, which first ran on October 10, 1931. Photo: Artemis, Leeds City Council
10. Leeds city centre in 1949
The Marsden Monument pictured in June 1949. It was put up in 1878 and later relocated to Woodhouse Moor. Photo: YPN
11. Leeds city centre in 1949
The Headrow bustling with shoppers in February 1949. Photo: YPN
12. Leeds city centre in 1949
A view from the top of city centre department store Lewis's in July 1949. Photo: YPN