During the 1914 - 18 war years the members obviously decreased again. In the 1920's when times were bad, membership declined to about 30 but the club continued to learn about such things as the new 'flash bulbs' which replaced the previously used magnesium powder which could be unpredictable and was highly explosive and also in the use of 'dry mounting tissue' to replace the previously used paste. The early use of colour was also the subjects of demonstrations although the purists though that this gimmick would never catch on !! Exhibitions were held in the Kilblain St. Hall but sometimes in the Watt Hall in Union St. where the let for the hall stipulated that every print had to be properly framed as they were often hung below the oil paintings and tapestries already hanging in the museum premises so that they were of the same standard.
In the early 1930's outings were very popular prior to the Second World War and included Findlaystone House, Craigends, Duchal Estate Kilmalcolm, Formakin house at Langbank. These were organised by rail, bus and also hiking as an affinity with the Ramblers club had an effect, bearing in mind that the cameras, tripods and equipment then were quite large and heavy this then was no mean feat. Destinations further a field included Edinburgh, Kilcreggan, Roseneath, Glen Mason, Lock Eck and Loch Lomond.
During 1939 - 1945 wartime most premises were commandeered, activities continued with difficulty but exhibitions continued at a variety of premises in the town. Of course wartime restrictions curtailed most photographic activity on the grounds of security especially with the importance of Greenock and the surrounding area for naval activities etc. and with non availability and short supply of materials.
After the war in 1945 no premises were available and the membership was down to about 17 but meetings continued in members houses, the James Watt College or the Old Library Boardroom until a group of farsighted people collaborated to purchase the buildings which housed the old West End Baths and with the aid of Mr. Erskine Orr of the Greenock Telegraph newspaper these premises in Campbell St. were converted to The Greenock Arts Guild catering for the sponsorship of Drama, Theatre, Dance, Music and other artistic pursuits for the people of the area.
As one of the original guarantors the Greenock Camera Club have met there since 1946 every Thursday night, from October through to the end of May and have darkroom facilities suitable for developing mono and colour films and in their printing. continue>>
