The photograher Johns was to spend much of his time in the south of London but would come to Surrey and photograph scenes in the Esher Disrict and make them into picture postcards.

This photograph is an unusual one in that the card was used as an advertisement for Hammerton & Sons, Ltd., who were Boat, Punt & Dinghy Builders, at The Ferry, Long Ditton.

The age of the card is obvious as it explains how to arrive at the Boathouse and mentions taking the Tram from Surbiton Station to the Ditton Tram Terminus, which is one minute walk to the river.

Posted from a Ditton Post Office on 29/09/1906 to a Mrs Chadwick in Cambridge.

Written from The Grange "If perfectly convenient to you I find I can get away on Monday the 15th, until Wed. the 17th, as our Rector has been obliged to put off his departure for another month. My best love F. Emily Sales"

Posted in Surbiton on 07/02/1907 to Miss Shepherd in Exeter.

"Dear F. Very many thanks for the P.C. I like it very much. You did not answer my question about this one, but I do not think I have sent it before. I am going up to Lills for the afternoon today. Hope you are all well. Much love from Ethel"

A postcard written from the houseboat called Laleham at Thames Ditton on 24th April 1924 and posted in East Molesey to Mr and Mrs Miles in Northants.

"We are having a delightful time......Julie has not yet received her passport but we are expecting it by every post. Love to you both Wyn"

Posted in Surbiton on 30/08/1904 to Mrs Leaver at the Post Office, Hamble, Southampton in rhyme

"Netley, Fratton, Bognor, Here

Two days more my heart to cheer

Repairs not finished we're still off

Commence on Wednesday - had enough

Horace"

Posted in Thames Ditton 20/04/1916 to a Miss C. Campbell in Scotland.

Written from 5 Holly Cottages, Manor Road, Thames Ditton. "Dear C. How does this spot suit you? Quite near home here. Hope you are having a good Easter. Yours sincerely Len."

Posted in Thames Ditton on 20th May 1917 to Miss L. Powell 62 Whitby Road Luton.

"Dear Lilly I thought you would like a view of the Thames. It is A1 here. Shall be sorry when Tuesday comes with love Rose."

Posted from Thames Ditton on 31/05/1911 to Verviers Belgium and written in French.

Describes having a superb time and is signed by several people including Pierre.

Written to Miss Anderson Cliftonville Margate from Murcott Weston Green Thames Ditton on 6th August 1914 and posted at Thames Ditton.

"I am having a good time here but doubt shall even be able to get to Margate now. Write me a letter telling me how the dear old place is suiting you Love from Jean"