Amy Flagg facts for kids

Amy Cecilia Flagg (born September 30, 1893 – died February 22, 1965) was a talented British historian and photographer. She is best known for her work documenting the town of South Shields in England. Amy spent many years researching and taking pictures of her hometown.

Amy Flagg's Life and Work

Amy Flagg was born in South Shields on September 30, 1893. At that time, South Shields was part of County Durham. She lived in an area called Westoe. Amy became the official historian for South Shields. She dedicated her life to studying and recording the town's history.

A Photographer During Wartime

Amy was also a keen photographer. She joined the South Shields Photographic Society in 1930. During World War II, she became the town's official photographer. Her job was to capture images of the damage caused by air raids. She even took pictures of her own home after it was destroyed in an air raid on April 16, 1941.

Amy used a simple Box Brownie camera for her photos. She developed all her pictures herself. Some of her wartime photographs were published by the local newspaper, the Shields Gazette.

Later Life and Legacy

After the war, Amy Flagg volunteered at Ingham Infirmary. She also helped out at the South Shields Public Library. After her death on February 22, 1965, her large collection of historical materials and photographs was given to the South Tyneside Library. She also left a generous amount of money to the infirmary.

Recognizing Amy Flagg's Contributions

Amy Flagg's important work has been recognized in several ways.

Mention in a Famous Novel

The well-known author Anya Seton thanked Amy Flagg in her 1962 novel Devil Water. This book was about James, the Earl of Derwentwater, and his part in the Jacobite rising of 1715. Anya Seton wrote that Amy was a "dear friend and kinswoman." She also called Amy an "indefatigable sleuth" for her tireless research. Anya Seton was very grateful for all the historical information Amy patiently copied for her.

A Painting and an Exhibition

In 1955, artist Albert E. Black painted a watercolour picture of Amy Flagg. The painting shows her wearing a long brown coat and carrying a basket of flowers and an easel. This artwork is now part of the collection at Tyne and Wear Museums.

In 1969, an exhibition of Amy Flagg's photographs was held at the South Shields Public Library. This allowed many people to see her important work.

Blue Plaque Commemoration

Amy Flagg was chosen to be honored with a blue plaque at her former home, Chapel House, in Westoe. A blue plaque is a special sign placed on buildings to remember famous people who lived or worked there. The plaque was planned for 2021 but was delayed by the Covid pandemic. It was finally unveiled by the Mayor of South Tyneside on International Women's Day, March 8, 2022.