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Sumach tan tub at a leather factory, south London

Sumach tan tub at a leather factory, south London


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Sumach tan tub at a leather factory, south London

Sumach tan tub (part of the goatskin tanning process) at the Neckinger Mills leather factory, Bermondsey, south London. Date: 1842

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Media ID 23150772

© Mary Evans Picture Library

1840s 1842 Bank Bermondsey Bevington Conditions Goat Goatskin Leather Manual Manufacture Manufacturing Mills Process Processing Workman Workmen Goatskins Neckinger


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> Architecture > Industrial

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Towns > Bermondsey

> Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021


EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative image from the 1840s, we witness the labor-intensive process of goatskin tanning at Neckinger Mills leather factory in Bermondsey, South London. The year is 1842, and the scene unfolds in the early days of the Victorian era. The industrial revolution has transformed the landscape of Britain, and factories such as Neckinger Mills have become the backbone of the manufacturing sector. At the heart of the tanning process lies the sumach tan tub, a large wooden vat filled with a mixture of water, sumach bark, and goatskins. The sumach bark, sourced from the Middle East, is added to the vat to initiate the tanning process. The men in the photograph, dressed in heavy workwear, are seen manually agitating the goatskins in the tub, ensuring an even coating of the tannin solution. The working conditions at the factory were challenging, with long hours, low wages, and harsh environments. The men worked in close proximity to each other, often in poorly lit and ventilated spaces. Despite these challenges, they remained dedicated to their work, driven by the need to provide for their families and contribute to the growing industry. The Neckinger Mills leather factory was a significant part of the local economy in Bermondsey, South London. The factory produced high-quality leather, which was used in various industries, including footwear, clothing, and luggage. The factory's proximity to the River Thames facilitated the transportation of raw materials and finished products, making it an essential player in the manufacturing sector. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, providing us with a window into the lives of the workers and the industrial processes that shaped the early Victorian era. It serves as a reminder of the human effort and dedication required to manufacture goods during this period, and the transformative impact of the industrial revolution on the British economy.

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