Election day in Portsmouth, 1911-style

Yes, at last, after all the mud-slinging today is voting day for the general election.

In 1911, there were local elections for the Portsmouth borough.

Ballot boxes at Fratton station, 1911. (Robert James collection)placeholder image
Ballot boxes at Fratton station, 1911. (Robert James collection)

As you can see this is how ballot boxes were transported in those days.

They arrived at Fratton railway station and were placed on a handcart ready to be taken to where the count was taking place, probably the Guildhall.

Notice it is securely tied and guarded by a police constable to make sure no vote-rigging took place.

The rear of the houses in Walmer Road, behind the group, remain the same today

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