One of the earliest photos ever taken, in 1855, not many years after photography was invented. This was before the conservatory was built, and on the right side you can just see that something is where the conservatory is presently standing, but is not exactly the conservatory. The handwriting describes this as Gaddesden Park, which is the old name for Gaddesden Place. Another photo of the burnt out house. The writing style suggests another postcard. Another pre-fire photo. Interestingly the plank of wood up against the tree suggest this was taken just before the fire as the very same plank can be seen on the following post-fire photo. This tree no longer exists. Another post-fire photo. The conservatory was spared.