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A couple of Cockney Loafers
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A couple of Cockney Loafers
A couple of Cockney Loafers. Date: circa 1890s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 11574755
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Cockney Cockneys Coster Costermonger Costermongers Costers Disreputable Dodgy Lads Loafers Londoner Londoners Monger Mongers Phil Tradesmen Unemployed Loafer Spiv
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, titled 'A Couple of Cockney Loafers' and dated circa 1890s, offers a glimpse into the colorful and complex world of the East End of London during the late Victorian era. The image features two men, dressed in typical Cockney attire, lounging on a cobblestone street. The term 'Cockney' was commonly used to refer to the working-class residents of the East End, known for their distinctive accent and unique culture. The men in the photograph, with their wide-brimmed hats and baggy trousers, are identified as 'Cockney Loafers' or 'Costermongers.' These tradesmen were known for selling fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their barrows, often with a sly or disreputable demeanor. The term 'loafer' suggests that these men may have been unemployed or only occasionally working, relying on their charm and wit to make a living. The image also captures the essence of the 'wideboys' and 'spivs,' terms used to describe the more disreputable elements of the East End. These men were known for their sly and manipulative behavior, often engaging in illegal activities or exploiting loopholes in the law to make a profit. Despite their unsavory reputation, the Cockney Loafers and their ilk were an integral part of the East End community, and their presence is an essential piece of the historical puzzle that makes up the rich tapestry of London's past. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era, providing a unique window into the lives of these Londoners and their vibrant, complex world.
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