The Douglas House, Brook Street 1958

This authentic 1950s colour photograph captures Douglas House, located at 41-43 Brook Street in Mayfair, London, during 1957. At the time of this image, the building served as a prominent club and social centre for US servicemen stationed in or visiting the capital, as signified by the American flag flying from the first-floor balcony. A particularly striking detail is the presence of three identical two-tone orange and black Volkswagen Type 2 (T1) Split Screen minibuses parked along the kerb, likely used for transporting personnel. A dark-coloured Morris Minor is also visible parked behind the lead VW. The club’s tenure at this prestigious address was nearing its end when this photo was taken, as Douglas House moved to larger premises at Lancaster Gate in 1958 to accommodate the high volume of American military visitors. This archival print is a fascinating record of the American military presence in post-war London, making it an excellent resource for historians or to print for yourself as a unique piece of vintage wall art.