1950s

I am sure there is a dog in there somewhere, but for the life of me, I can't find it!

Bits are still there - Google Satellite not yet 3D - www.google.com/maps/@54.2684187,-8.4647982,97a,35y,22.25h...

Streetview of the entrance - maps.app.goo.gl/3y4rY1XFkBn8XUv88

Michael Collins was there, Account in Michael Collins' hand of his capture and detention in Sligo Gaol.

It held few prisoners by that time and was closed the following year
“The Gaol’s ‘panopticon’ or ‘all-seeing’ design centred around the Governor’s House, from which the cell block could be observed at all times. Both prisoner and guard were underconstant surveillance. The internal design was intended to allow for air circulation around
the buildings and its inmates, in order to avoid the spread of disease and sickness. There was separate accommodation for men, women, criminals, lunatics and children.

www.sligogaol.ie/general

Suck Diesel hanging took place up to 1903.
Public hangings outside the main gate and private hangings in the treadmill yard on the left.
Many earlier guests ‘emigrated’ to Oz

Ok, what is it about this snapshot that is distinct from so many others? Yes, the endearing vintage look is appealing as is the interesting unfolding of the ‘dance’ event. But it’s really just some guy sweeping up in a hardware store. —- that’s exactly right - it’s not a kissing couple on a foggy Parisian boulevard or a busy street corner in New York. You really don’t need a professional master photographer to create beauty. —— the hues are fabulous in this indoor flashbulb that exposure. The two gestures are so wonderfully choreographed. And most of all it’s the solid structure of the picture. Look at the harmonious diagonal lines created by his leg, broom stick, bar edge, her leg. And how everything fits into where it should be so casually. Nice photo

Thank you for the kind comments! Mary Lloyd Johnson carried her camera everywhere, capturing local events and people. She has captured our local history like no other person.

I believe this is the Piccadilly Arcade shop.

"WEIRDO'S
SUPERIOR
MAGIC
THE BEST IN MAGIC
WEIRDO'S
MAGIC AND
NOVELTY SHOP
24 Piccadilly Arcade
220 Pitt Street, Sydney
CATALOGUE No. 2
MAGIC AT IT'S BEST"

Weirdo's Magic and Novelty Shop. (1943). Weirdo's superior magic Retrieved May 1, 2025, from nla.gov.au/nla.obj-2841227511

That would be Mr McKechnie there behind the counter.

"SHORTAGE OF MAGICIANS FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES
Sydney was short or magicians and conjurors this Christmas, Mr. S. McKechnie, professionally known as "Weirdo," said yesterday.
'All 'wizards' are booked out until February next year," Mr: McKechnie added. Mr. McKechnie owns the "Weirdo" Magic Trick Shop, in Piccadilly Arcade, which is the headquarters of 12 men who entertain as "wizards, conjurors, and comperes."
"Many of them have to do three or four jobs an afternoon." said Mr. Mc Kechnie. "A shortage of 'wizards' can have a serious effect on the morale of the community. "Most of our key 'wizards' are in the Army and should be released for the Christmas season."

SHORTAGE OF MAGICIANS FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES (1944, December 14). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved May 1, 2025, from nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248075317

Blue Mountains Library, Local Studies thanks - I will update the caption. 👍

I recall the shop used to do a brisk trade to school kids for fake vomit and whoopee cushions, often as not for practical jokes in the class room!
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whoopee_cushion
content.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2...