York The Gateway to History

York, as this 1955 British Railway poster points out, is a city with a huge wealth of history.

This reproduction of a British Railways poster, was created for the North Eastern Region, York, in 1955, by the artist EH Spencer. 

This railway poster image is set against a backdrop of Bootham Bar, which was built by the Romans in around 71AD and the magnificent York Minster which was built around 1472. Two of York’s most famous landmarks.

In front of this are six head and shoulder portraits of historical figures that have had an impact on York over the centuries. The first is of a Roman soldier, representing the initial founding of Eboracum (York) in 71AD. A Norman soldier reflecting the reclaiming of York from the Vikings and the reuniting of Britain.

The head of a Parliamentarian Roundhead from the Civil War is a reflection of the Battle of Marston Moor and the Siege of York in 1644. The head in the tricorn hat, is likely to represent Captain James Cook, the British explorer, who was born in Marston, Yorkshire in 1728 and went on claim New South Wales for Britain. The final head represents the Archbishop of  York Minster.

Our posters are carefully and professionally created from vintage originals. Whilst great care is taken in the production of these posters, we also try to maintain a vintage feel, so there may be small imperfections, fold marks, scuffs, tears or marks that were part of the original poster master. If these do appear they should be visible on the larger views of the item on this listing. The originals of many of the posters we offer can cost many thousands of pounds, so whilst these posters look great, especially framed and mounted on a wall, they are intended as a fun, affordable reproductions and not intended fine art prints.

The 50x70cm version has been specially produced to be used in conjunction with Ikea’s 50x70cm Ribba picture frame which currently retails for around £12. So you can bag a bargain of print and frame for a great price.