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Flushing the sewers 1860s
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Flushing the sewers 1860s
With the population expanding and dumping coursing blockages below the depths of London, men wearing heavy oilskin protective clothing would go into the tunnels to unblock the sewers with a combing method.
circa 1860s
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Media ID 23071384
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Combined Combing Community Flushing Maintenance Oilskin Oilskins Sanitary Sewage Sewer Sewers Supply Tunnel Tunnels Worker 1860s Blockage
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In this evocative photograph from the 1860s, a group of intrepid workers clad in heavy oilskin protective clothing prepare to enter the depths of London's sewer system. The population of the city was rapidly expanding, and with it came an increasing amount of waste and sewage that threatened to clog the combined sanitary sewers and cause blockages below the streets. The men in this image are gearing up for the arduous task of unblocking these tunnels using a combing method. The oilskin clothing they wear is essential for protecting them from the fetid water and other hazards that lurk within the sewers. The thick, waterproof fabric was a common choice for workers in such environments, as it provided a barrier against the wet conditions and prevented the absorption of water. The importance of maintaining the city's sewer system was a pressing concern in the 19th century, as the health and wellbeing of the community depended on it. Blockages could lead to the backflow of raw sewage into homes and streets, spreading disease and causing public health crises. The workers in this photograph are therefore performing a vital service, ensuring that the city's sewers remain clear and functional. Despite the challenges and hazards of their work, these men carry on with determination and a sense of duty. They are a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the working-class communities that kept London's infrastructure running during this period of rapid urbanization and growth. The photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, providing a reminder of the essential role that sewer maintenance plays in keeping our cities clean and healthy.
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