Yearning for the return of the Bermuda of yesteryear?

Until time travel is possible, pictures will have to do and a Bermudian living in Canada has made hundreds accessible.

Eric Silva founded the Old Bermuda page on Facebook in September – the response has been fantastic.

"Membership has already surpassed the 1,200 mark [and there are] 455 photographs, in just a matter of a few months.

"Some of the photos that I really enjoyed seeing was a sea plane, the USA Pan American Clipper poster advertisement, offering [five-hour] flights to Bermuda from New York.

"It shows the aircraft, cabins and seats. Another photo is of people lifting up their bicycles onto the back of the train. There is also a photo of people looking up at a passing train, over the pillars in Bailey's Bay.

"I think that the photos with our trains are really eye catching. It really is quite amazing to see what it was like in Bermuda many years ago, way before my time. It takes your breath away."

He got the idea through his work in healthcare at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and St. John's Ambulance Brigade.

"I have always been so intrigued by the history of Bermuda and the natural beauty of our Island as seen by historical photographs," he said.

"When I worked with the elderly population in Bermuda I would often find myself asking what it was like years ago when they were growing up.

"I was fascinated by their description of what it was like way back then travelling by train. And I would picture these locomotives on the tracks that ran through our railway trails and overhead passes which still exist today."

It suddenly struck him that others might share his interest.

"I thought, 'how about if people can place their old historical photographs on a website for all to enjoy?'"

Responses came from everywhere. "It was so interesting to note that not only were Bermudians enjoying and expressing their appreciation for my idea, but past and present visitors from all over the world were as well," Mr. Silva said.

"It really amazed me how I was/am able to help reunite people through this communication portal, allowing many to reminisce on their past experiences of Bermuda. Beautiful and breathtaking photos were starting to be uploaded to the site."

Search for Old Bermuda under 'groups' on Facebook.

"You can then browse for your photos and upload them directly into the directory. It really is a simple process."

"I thank all those who have so kindly contributed their photos to the Old Bermuda website."

Mr. Silva was born in Bermuda. He now works in the only adult burn care centre in the Maritimes, as a registered nurse.

"I greatly enjoy what I do – the ability to provide care and emotional support to patients and their families.

"I am the type of person who tends to wear my heart on my sleeve, wanting to help those in need and bring people together.

"So what better way to give back to Bermuda once more, even though I live abroad, by sharing our history with our people and the world."

Pictures on Old Bermuda highlight just how dramatically Bermuda has changed.

"For such a small Island I really cannot comprehend how so many building permits are being approved [how we are] allowing for these rather large structures, especially in our city," Mr. Silva said.

"It is upsetting when historical structures are demolished or restructured to make way for the new....as many would prefer to see the historical structure remain with its beautiful architecture and design as it was many years ago."