Another shot from an almost deserted York city centre, taken on my allowed daily exercise.
The first Bettys tea room was opened in Harrogate in July 1919, by Frederick Belmont, a Swiss confectioner. The business was successful, and in 1937 this York branch was opened. There are currently six branches, with two in York. This branch became particularly popular during the Second World War when the basement 'Bettys Bar' became a favourite with hundreds of American and Canadian 'Bomber Boys' who were stationed around York. 'Bettys Mirror', on which many of them engraved their signatures with a diamond pen, remains on display at the branch today.
The origin of the Bettys name is unknown. The company's website suggests four possibilities: Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, mother of Queen Elizabeth II (which seems unlikely as she did not come to public prominence until marrying the Duke of York in 1923); Betty Lupton, former manager of the Harrogate Spa; the daughter of a previous occupant of the Harrogate premises who died of tuberculosis; or a small child who interrupted a meeting at which the choice of name was being discussed.
The most startling difference with normality is the absence of a queue in this shot. Bettys is a well known and popular venue, and there is often a queue from the entrance to the left and back around the curved corner.
As several people have commented, these city centre locations do look odd without people. I have deliberately taken shots in the quietest places as a future reminder of the lockdown. I can take photos with crowds at any time, but to see the city centre almost deserted is unique.
these are historical photos you are taking Ian. Something unique and to treasure. please keep taking these and preserve them for future generations and historical moment in time
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
I'm looking forward to hearing if the Prime Minister will relax any of the current restrictions when he speaks to the nation tonight.
Ian
Thank you Nina - I now have quite a selection of shots of the almost empty city. It is important to remember events like the current crisis.
Ian