“At the junction of the old river and the new cut the river widens out somewhat, so that it has come to be known as Thorpe Broad, although it has nothing in common with the Broads properly so called. The scene depicted is the rendezvous of a small fleet of yachts and sherries about to start on a cruise in company.”-original caption from folio

“We all pulled up the Reach, Thorpe Broad as the natives call it. A smooth canal, gardens and suburban-looking houses, a church and an old manor house among them, on one side, and many yachts along the bank opposite.” ⎯Henry Montagu Doughty, 1889 (1.)

George Christopher Davies: 1849-1922

Davies was “a prolific photographer and writer who played an important role in encouraging popular awareness of the Norfolk Broads.” (2.) The following biography of the artist courtesy: Norfolk Through a Lens: A guide to the Photographic Collections held by Norfolk Library & Information Service –

Born in Shropshire, Davies practised as a solicitor for a time; he first came to Norfolk in 1871 to serve part of his articles. He was later to become Chief Clerk at Norfolk County Council in 1906, also serving as Clerk of the Peace. In his private life he was a nature lover, sportsman and photographer. His skills as a writer did much to popularise the Norfolk Broads as a rural idyll and holiday destination. When he was 27 he wrote ‘The Swan and her Crew’ an adventure story for boys set in the Norfolk Broads which created a great interest and enthusiasm for the area. His major work ‘Handbook to the Rivers and Broads of Norfolk and Suffolk’ was published in 55 editions and contained 12 of his own photographs. Davies also produced other books about the Broads, sailing, Belgian waterways, natural history, fishing, adventure books for children and even some on government administration. Towards the end of his life he acquired Burnt Fen Broad and spent many hours there during his retirement.