Traffic-free day

This postcard view of Manly Wharf was probably taken from the top floor of the Montreaux flats in Commonwealth Parade. It gives a slightly different angle on the Wharf than other postcard views I've seen, and is of interest for the view it gives of Osborne Road, Darley Road and Cliff Street.

It has been a puzzle to try to put a date to the image. It certainly pre-dates 1930, because the Cargo Wharf has yet to be converted into the Manly Fun Pier. Could it be earlier than 1920? There are very few apartment blocks to be seen, such as the well-known Beaumaris Flats, the Waterhouse and Lake block at 30 Cliff Street, constructed c1918. One block which can be seen is 'Alton', in East Esplanade, with its distinctive pyramidal tower, which was built c1916. The grand houses of Osborne Road, 'Hirondelle' and 'Stancombe' show no signs of having verandahs infilled or other conversion.

Another indicator is the lack of vehicular traffic - there is a car parked outside 'Elsmere' on the corner of East Esplanade and Wentworth Street, probably the car of Dr David Thomas, whose consulting rooms were in Elsmere. Otherwise, apart from the horse and cart on the cargo wharf - no, there are two - not much is stirring. Yet it's mid-afternoon, if the wharf clock is to be trusted. A lone fisherman perches at the very end of the ferry wharf. Lazy days.

Thanks to John Morcombe for allowing us to scan this image.

John MacRitchie