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Reading, Berkshire - William McIlroy Ltd - Oxford Road
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Reading, Berkshire - William McIlroy Ltd - Oxford Road
Reading, Berkshire - William McIlroy Ltd at 6-34 Oxford Road - The store was opened in 1903, and was known as the Crystal Palace of Reading because of its 2000 feet of plate glass windows, and employed over 1000 people. The McIlroy family had strong connections with Reading, with William McIlroy being the Mayor as well as donating land to form McIlroy Park. The store in Reading closed in 1955. Date: circa 1908
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Media ID 14251487
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Berkshire Corner Department Folly Frontage Mar17 Oxford Store Unusual Windows Mcilroy
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EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "The Crystal Palace of Reading: A Glance into the Past at William McIlroy Ltd, Oxford Road, circa 1908" This photograph offers a glimpse into the rich history of Reading, Berkshire, with a focus on the iconic William McIlroy Ltd store located at 6-34 Oxford Road. Established in 1903, this department store was a true marvel of its time, boasting an impressive 2000 feet of plate glass windows, earning it the nickname "The Crystal Palace of Reading." The store's ornate and unusual frontage, adorned with intricate architectural details, stands out as a testament to the era's design sensibilities. The plate glass windows, a relatively new innovation at the time, filled the store with natural light and showcased the merchandise in an enticing manner. The store's grandeur was further emphasized by its impressive size, employing over 1000 people. The McIlroy family, who had strong connections to Reading, played a significant role in the community. William McIlroy, the store's namesake, served as the Mayor of Reading and generously donated land to form McIlroy Park. The store's closure in 1955 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate us with its architectural beauty and historical significance. This photograph, taken circa 1908, invites us to appreciate the unique charm of the past and the remarkable evolution of retail design. The store's corner location on Oxford Road remains a reminder of Reading's rich history and the enduring allure of its architectural gems.
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