Heritage and History Publications

You've never had it so good! - Dagenham in the 1950s

Susan Curtis and Gillian Gillespie

2001

£8

A photographic record of Dagenham in the 1950s by Egbert Smart, Librarian and official Council photographer.

The British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan coined the phrase 'You've never had it so good!', during his premiership in the late 1950s. It reflected the country's huge economic recovery following the gloom of World War II.

This mood is mirrored clearly in the superb collection of photographs taken by Egbert Smart.

In our Archive Store, are an amazing 16,000 images reflecting a ¼ of a century of change from 1950-1975. The general public has never had such a good opportunity until now to view these pictures.

The authors have selected themes illustrating events and developments in the 1950s, such as the Coronation and the Welfare State. The text informs the reader of the national scene and the local situation in Dagenham.

This publication has the potential to interest both the general reader and local children who are studying 'Britain since 1930' as part of the History National Curriculum.

It also forms part of our Heritage Strategy to develop and promote our rich local heritage, in which we take great pride.