The Nigel Temple Collection at Historic England

This series comprises 6501 postcards of public parks and gardens mainly in England. 34 foreign views, principally of Scotland, Wales and Ireland, have been catalogued under TEM01/01/01. Most of the cards date from around 1900 to 1910, though there are later examples. Many well-known photographers and manufacturers are represented, including Valentine and Sons Limited, Francis Frith and George Washington Wilson; a comprehensive listing is available in the hard copy catalogue. Both real photographs and printed halftone cards occur, many of the Edwardian examples being hand-tinted.

The collection covers public parks and gardens across England, with a slight emphasis on certain seaside resorts. It is particularly good for views of people using the amenities, detailing costumes, vehicles and activities. Themes include Italianate gardens, floral clocks, carpet gardens, planting regimes, tea gardens, water features, garden architecture and sculpture (including a range of rustic bridges and chalets), and gate lodges. Garden staff and police are also commonly depicted.