'Lot 455' Photographs by Norman Fairlam Book

We often come across old boxes of long forgotten films and photographs on our outings. Part of the allure of these discarded memories is wondering why the person behind the camera captured these moments specifically.

This selection of stunning photographs in their original box were found in our local auction and were brought in as part of a house clearance.

The photographs were taken in Tripoli, Libya by Norman Fairlam in the late 1940s while he assisted in setting up an airport there. 

The photographs capture beautiful, intimate moments of Norman’s family life with wife Bessie and son Malcolm.

Born in Haltwhistle in 1911, Norman retired from Newcastle Airport as head of air traffic control in the 1970s. He lived in and around Newcastle after a stint in Tripoli and passed away in 2005.

After posting about the photographs on our Instagram page, they received an overwhelming response with one commenter suggesting a book be made.

Working with long term design partner Vincent Walden, we set about curating and designing a 32 page book of a selection of the photographs. 

We would like to thank the Grandson of Norman, Jon Fairlam, for kindly providing this information.

Limited to 100 hand numbered copies. 

Measures approximately 21cm x 15cm.