The ever-changing face of Hanover Buildings in Southampton

Found right in the core of the city, this thoroughfare has managed to retain its status as one of Southampton's most recognisable and well-trodden paths, a familiar landmark even as its face has been continually reshaped by the decades.

Strolling down its gentle incline, the green expanse of Houndwell Park unfurls to its side, leading towards the historic Hoglands. 

With every step, it's impossible not to feel the palpable weight of history. 

The very stones beneath one's feet seem to whisper tales of sweeping sociocultural shifts, the ambitious blueprints of urban planners, and the indelible, poignant scars left by the ravages of Second World War bombardments, all of which have left their unique imprint on its character.

The street's lineage is impressively deep, with its origins stretching back to the 18th century.

It proudly features on Milne's meticulously drawn plan of 1791. 

Yet, even then, it was not entirely new, for its path was laid over an even earlier track, one that faithfully traced the ancient line of the town's defensive ditch – a foundational layer upon which modern Southampton was built.

Venturing into the more recent past, the 1930s presented a lively scene. 

A cornerstone of local life, the Hanover Arms public house, proudly occupied the prominent corner where Hanover Buildings met Above Bar Street. 

This wasn't just any pub - its own history extended back to the mid-19th century, a familiar beacon for locals and visitors alike. 

Owned by the esteemed Cooper’s Brewery, situated conveniently nearby, it was a place of camaraderie and refreshment. 

Tragically, this beloved establishment became another innocent victim of the devastating enemy air raids during the war. 

The suspension of its licence in 1943 sealed its fate, and the Hanover Arms, a once-vibrant social hub, was destined never to rise from the rubble.

To truly appreciate the scale of change, one must peel back the layers of time to just over a century ago. 

The street directories of that era paint a picture of Hanover Buildings so vastly different from its contemporary incarnation that it's almost unrecognisable. 

Indeed, in 1922, the thoroughfare possessed an entirely distinct atmosphere, a unique rhythm of life. 

The pages of the directory reveal a fascinating mix of commerce. 

Jacob Cohen and Sons, esteemed naval and military outfitters, ensured the town's seafaring and service personnel were impeccably dressed, while Madame Roses Needlework Agency was a hub of delicate craftsmanship.

Mrs Crouch was a purveyor of furniture to grace local homes and there was a delightful sweet shop under the proprietorship of P Cohen and Sons, its sugary delights tempting passers-by.

Charles Seymour captured memories and art as a picture framer, while Mead and Sons, provided printing, their presses soon falling silent on the street as they prepared for a significant move to nearby Vincent's Walk. This very relocation was to make way for a name that would become legendary in Southampton's local history: the renowned auctioneer, William Burrough Hill.

Further along this historic parade of shops, one would have discovered the Fur Stores, offering luxurious pelts; the professional practice of Dr Anthony Batee; Ideal Films, perhaps bringing the nascent magic of the silver screen to the eager citizens of Southampton; and finally, the meticulous work of HB Broadbere, a skilled bookbinder preserving knowledge and stories. 

This collective of shops and services provided a comprehensive array for the customers of the area, ensuring a constant, lively stream of patrons who "kept on coming," making Hanover Buildings a bustling artery of local life.

The vibrant 1930s, leading up to the shadows of war, ushered in yet another wave of commercial diversity along this key artery that guided pedestrians towards the iconic Bargate. 

There would have been the sweet smell of confections from Newton’s, the crisp efficiency of Martin’s cleaners, the practical wares from Berry’s brushmakers, the sharp tailoring from Woodhams, the modern conveniences offered by Cook’s electrical engineers, the stylish transformations at Baker's hairdressers.

Immediately following the hairdressers, in this rich streetscape, stood ER Wright and Son, the city’s trusted glass experts. They were neighboured by Mrs Williams, an antique dealer whose shop held countless treasures and whispered stories from bygone eras. 

The tailor, AE Pope, ensured the citizens of Southampton were well-attired, and Miell’s, the auctioneers, echoed the brisk trade and changing fortunes of the day.

Among these enterprises, and standing shoulder to shoulder with the notable William Burrough Hill, the name ER Wright shines particularly brightly as a beacon of remarkable continuity. 

This glazing firm, first established in the Victorian era of 1862, is a true survivor, incredibly still operating today.

The Wright family's deep-rooted association with Hanover Buildings commenced when Henry Wright first established his emporium as a merchant of glass, lead, oil, and varnish.

In 1870, reflecting its growing success, the expanding business relocated to the opposite side of this very street, further cementing its prominent presence. 

Upon Henry’s passing in 1914, the enterprise was reborn as ER Wright and Son. 

Under this name, the cherished family tradition has been upheld with pride and dedication for generations. 

It was only in 1989, after more than a century of dedicated service from this historic street, that the firm made the significant decision to relocate its operations to Litchfield Road in Millbrook. This move marked the end of a very long and significant chapter for Hanover Buildings, but not, of course, for the Wright legacy itself.

The post-war years and the latter half of the 20th century saw Hanover Buildings continue its chameleonic adaptation, reflecting the evolving tastes and needs of a modernising Southampton. 

A kaleidoscope of different shopfronts came and went, each leaving its fleeting mark. 

The solid craftsmanship of John Perring furniture, the thoughtful sentiments and colourful displays found at Keeling's gift cards, the chart-topping tunes and cultural buzz emanating from HMV music - its opening in 1982 a notable event, drawing crowds of music lovers - the traditional cuts from Ponsford butchers, and the stylish trims and lively chatter at Mitch's hairdressers. 

Financial institutions like the Halifax building society also established their presence, alongside popular eateries such as Pizzaland restaurant, offering families a taste of Italian-American fare, and the everyday convenience of Safeways supermarket, each adding a new layer to the street's rich and ever-changing commercial history.

And today, Hanover Buildings continues its dynamic evolution, a vibrant reflection of 21st-century city life, still drawing people into its embrace. 

Stroll along its pavements now, and you'll encounter the sleek, modern salons of Rush Hair, the quick and tasty appeal of Taco Bell, the hopeful flutter within Bet Fred, the (often changing) elegance of retailers like the former Laura Ashley, the cult entertainment haven of Forbidden Planet, and the wholesome, conscious offerings of Cafe Thrive – a mere snapshot of the diverse businesses that now call the Southampton street home.

Hanover Buildings stands not just as a collection of shops and buildings, but as a living chronicle of Southampton's journey through time, forever adapting, yet always retaining its essential place in the city's heart.