The rich and varied life of the Tees has indeed affected everyone that has lived along its banks. From treacherous and uncertain, to simple agricultural trade route, to highly industrial thoroughfare, to finally a quiet backdrop for family and business attraction. The River Tees has certainly been the lifeblood of the area and at the heart of its communities. It has shaped the towns that we live in today throughout the Borough. The River Tees should be celebrated and its significance recognised.

A Colour print by T Allen W. Flloyd. A View of the River Tees from Stockton Bridge 1826. This image was used as a Christmas card by the Mayor and Mayoress in 1982

Crowds gathered for the proclamation of King George V at the Town House in Stockton. As King George started the annual Christmas Broadcast by the sovereign, the first being transmitted in 1932. George took over the throne in 1910 and reigned until his death in 1936 when his son Edward the VIII became King.

A steam-powered paddleboat in the 1890’s. This boat would have run the river between Stockton and Middlesbrough, often ferrying workers from the two towns to the various industries either side of the river.

Reading’ from the ’70 Years Behind The Lens’ exhibition by local artist Ray Wallace Thompson.

The Dodshon Memorial Fountain was a public drinking fountain originally set in front of the shambles on Stockton High Street.

It was moved to Ropner Park in 1892 but then moved back to the High Street in 1995. The drinking fountain was also built with troughs for horses and dogs c1878.

Tree at Tarn Hows’ from the ’70 Years Behind The Lens’ exhibition by local artist Ray Wallace Thompson.

Shipbuilding had been happening on the River Tees well before the 1800s. Indeed the first recorded ship was built in 1189 for the Crusades. The Port towns of Worsall, Yarm and Stockton had all more than dabbled in Shipbuilding. Small firms and individuals could build small vessels and keels, if they had the timber and the labour. There was always demand for Ships in Stockton as it became more and more established as a trading port. The first site for an established shipyard in Stockton was started by a shipwright called John Headlam in 1726. This was situated on the riverbank near the present site of the Castlegate Marine Club. In 1888 the land was purchased by Robert Ropner and ships continued to be produced up until 1931. Ships were originally built from wood, and powered by sail.

Castle Theatre High St. c. 1909. In about 1912 the building was renamed the Empire Theatre. At this point in time moving pictures had started being made.

Outside the Blacksmiths shop at Preston Hall Museum. c1985

The bend of the River later on in time as the shipbuilding industry develops. There are clearly shipyards dominating both sides of the river. If you followed the river round on the left hand side you would soon come to the North Shore Shipyard of Ropner’s.

Ye Olde Cherry Faire Races 1904. The races were held annually on July 18th. Here the donkey race is about to begin at Victoria Football Grounds.

Shutts Yard at Preston Hall Museum.

SB Leng and Co. Leather Works on Stocktons riverside. Lengs premises moved up to Bishopton Lane where it remained until recently. This photograph was taken by Henry Heavysides.