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Ballast-heavers 1850s
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Ballast-heavers 1850s
Ballast-heavers or also named as mudlarks at work, labourers dredging the River Thames for the opportunity of finding something valuable amongst the mud. This was when the River was not sanitized and diseases like diphtheria, scrofula and cholera were rife. Date: circa 1850s
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Media ID 23071008
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1850 1850s Ballast Breaking Cleaning Diseases Dredge Dredger Dredging Labour Labourer Labourers Manual Opportunities Scavenger Scavengers Scavenging Shovel Shovels Tools Lurk Mudlarks Shoveling
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the gritty reality of ballast-heavers, also known as mudlarks, at work on the muddy banks of the River Thames in the mid-1850s. The laborers are seen intently shoveling through the thick, murky mud in search of valuable finds, their faces etched with determination and focus. The scene is a stark reminder of the harsh living conditions and dangerous working environment that existed along the river during this era. The River Thames, a major source of commerce and transportation in London, was not yet sanitized during this time, and diseases such as diphtheria, scrofula, and cholera were rampant. Despite the risks, the ballast-heavers continued their daily labor, driven by the potential rewards of their efforts. They searched for discarded items, including bones, pottery shards, and even precious metals, which they could sell for a profit. The men in this photograph are shown using simple yet effective tools, including long-handled shovels, to move the mud and uncover potential treasures. Their backs are bent, and their clothes are stained and worn, a testament to the physical demands of their work. The scene exudes an air of industry and perseverance, as the laborers tirelessly work to eke out a living from the muddy waters of the Thames. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, providing a window into the lives of the unsung heroes who labored on the banks of the River Thames during the 19th century. Their story is one of hardship, resilience, and the human spirit's ability to adapt and survive in the face of adversity.
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