Photography was one of the great innovations of the mid nineteenth century and the earliest known photographs of Nayland and Wiston date from the 1860s, but these are rare.

With the introduction of picture postcards in the 1890s many early photographs of Nayland and Wiston were taken by Charles Gowing and J.W.T. Archer and much or their work is featured in this collection.  The work of other photographers, such as Henry Faiers, Mrs M Gowing (his cousin), Mr Abbott and Sidney Butler was also sold as postcards.

Charles Gowing (1846-1934) was a baker and confectioner who lived in Fen Street.  He recorded village social events, local people and their houses, floods and other newsworthy events.

J.W.T. Archer's work covers the 1930s to the 1950s.  He too was a Nayland resident.

Postcards were printed by local, national and continental firms and even by the Nayland newsagent.

In many cases the postcards were stamped and include messages.  From these and the stamps it is clear there were several deliveries during the day and the latest post office cancellation stamp from Nayland Post Office was 7pm.  With no computers and very few telephones written communications were very important.

These postcards and photographs were part of the David May Collection which was auctioned at Reeman Dansie Auctions on 20th March 2010. The Nayland with Wissington Conservation Society purchased 3 Lots at a total cost (including buyer's premium) of £1,205.66.