IN 1897 Barry Chamber of Trade published an Illustrated Guide to Barry which was sold for a penny.
The town was increasingly being seen not only for its industrial docks but also as a health resort with restoring sea airs with health giving qualities.
The illustrated guide's glowing description of Barry Island states the biggest attraction in the district was Whitmore Bay.
In 1897 the beach was approached via high sand banks.
The bay was described as a beautiful crescent shape with fine sand devoid of pebbles.
The visitors could also watch the ships and fully rigged sailing vessels glide up and down the channel.
In 1896, 2,646 ships visited Barry Dock.
It must have been a wonderful sight.
The Barry & District News would like to thank Cllr Shirley Hodges for the photograph and information.
If you have an old Barry photograph you would like to see included, with information about what it depicts, email sha@barryanddistrictnews.co.uk
More News:
Vale now second worst hit in Wales after rise in coronavirus cases
Lifeguard service on Barry beach suspended amid outbreak
Family heartbroken after losing dad and trying to arrange funeral under Covid-19 rules
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here