The images in this set relate to the subject of caravans and camping. They have been selected from the Arthur J Fenwick collection of circus material.Arthur James Fenwick (1878-1957) was a director of Fenwick’s Department Store, Newcastle. In his personal life he was extremely interested in fairs and circuses, collecting historical material about them and building personal relationships with showmen who visited Newcastle, particularly Bostock & Wombwell’s circus, and the Hoppings held annually on the Town Moor. He was made a life member of the Showmen’s Guild in 1944.

Desert Dream caravan on the road, 1950Desert Dream caravan on the road, 1950A.J.Fenwick sat on the steps of a showman’s caravanYoung lady and birdcagesOutdoor stove. Two girls stood next to an old stove in amongst a group of caravans.Group of travelers. This group of fair/circus travelers are sat amongst caravans and big top style tents.Traveling showman’s caravanCircus Showman’s caravan. A beautiful traditional style horse drawn wooden caravan.Traveling showman’s covered caravanMackney’s caravanWalker Hoadley’s caravanChipperfield Circus caravans, Town Moor, NewcastleCharacter reader and ClairvoyantManders Menagerie(Photos from Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums