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Road Works in Whitehall, London, 1882
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Road Works in Whitehall, London, 1882
Engraving, originally entitled Horse Guards under Fire again, showing a group of workmen re-surfacing the road in Whitehall, London, 1882. In the foreground the men are preparing pitch or tar with their portable furnace, whilst in the background another man lays the paving blocks
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Media ID 599017
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10132953
1887 Attract Choked Fumes Machines Pollution Repair Repairing Road Works Roads Spraying Surfacing Whitehall
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving, titled "Road Works in Whitehall, London, 1882," offers a fascinating glimpse into the past of urban infrastructure development during the Victorian era. The image captures a group of hardworking men engaged in the laborious process of resurfacing the road in Whitehall, London. In the foreground, they are seen preparing pitch or tar using a portable furnace, while in the background another worker lays down new paving blocks. The scene is a stark contrast to the modern road construction methods we are accustomed to today. The men work in close proximity to each other, with no protective gear or machinery to shield them from the fumes and dust generated by the tar and the paving process. The crowd in the background, perhaps curious onlookers, adds to the bustling atmosphere of the scene. The road under repair is choked with horse-drawn transport, adding to the overall chaos and congestion. The horses, too, seem to be affected by the fumes, with some of them spraying water from their mouths in an attempt to cope with the pollution. Despite the challenges and hardships, the men remain focused on their task, determined to complete the repairs and improve the city's infrastructure. This image is a testament to the resilience and determination of the workforce during the Victorian era, who played a crucial role in shaping the urban landscape of London and other major cities. The historical significance of this image is further emphasized by the fact that it was created just a few years before the introduction of asphalt paving in 1887, which would eventually replace the use of tar and paving blocks for road surfacing. This engraving is an attractive addition to any collection of historical images, offering a unique perspective on the transport, construction, and history of London during the late 19th century.
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