Old Buildings in High Street Nos. 17-27 1868

Thomas Annan made this photograph, Old Buildings in High Street Nos. 17-27, using photogravure. Annan’s images of Glasgow’s old town provide a glimpse into a world of social stratification. This area, characterized by overcrowded tenements and poor sanitation, was home to a diverse population, including working-class families, immigrants, and marginalized communities. The presence of businesses like "Lodgings" hints at the transient nature of life for many inhabitants, while signs for "Glasgow Abstinence Society" highlight the social reform movements. Annan’s photographs were commissioned as part of a project to document areas slated for demolition and urban renewal. While these images were intended to promote progress, they also serve as a poignant reminder of the communities displaced. They prompt questions about whose stories are deemed worthy of preservation and how urban development can disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. Ultimately, this photograph captures a moment in time, inviting reflection on the complexities of urban life and the human stories embedded within Glasgow’s streets.