McIlroys

This is a section of the façade of what was the largest department store outside London up until the 1950's. The rest of the façade is a testament to the lavishness of the late Victorian times. It is all turrets and archways. There are stories of father Christmas triumphfully riding through town before meeting children in the store, a lion being on show (rather like Harrods I suppose), elephants being used to advertise the opening in 1900 and other weird and wonderful tales. It must have been quite grand in its time (think 'Mr Selfridge' and The Paradise'!)
Sadly it closed its doors in the 50's and the street level was divided into small units which now house Tescos, 2 charity shops, a bookies and a money lender. The top 2 floors have been turned into flats. I wonder who lives behind this window?

annewokingham has organised a blipmeet near Henley for Friday 11th. Would anyone else like to come along?