Womens Public Baths
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Womens Public Baths
Public baths for women, Golden Lane, London. Date: 1866
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14293126
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1866 Bathing Baths Lane Toilet Washing
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the daily routine of women at the public baths located on Golden Lane in London during the mid-19th century. The photograph, taken in 1866, offers a glimpse into the communal bathing and washing practices that were common during this time period for those who could not afford private facilities in their homes. The women in the photograph are seen engaging in various activities, some submerged in the large communal tubs, while others are washing themselves or their clothes at the adjacent sinks. The bathhouse appears to be well-used, with towels and clothing hanging to dry on the walls and the floor littered with personal belongings. Despite the crowded conditions, there is a sense of community and camaraderie among the women. They interact with one another, some sharing conversation while others focus on their personal grooming. The atmosphere is one of relaxation and rejuvenation, as the women take a break from their daily labors to attend to their personal hygiene. The public baths served an important function in Victorian society, providing a clean and sanitary environment for women to bathe and wash themselves. The practice of communal bathing was not without its challenges, however, as overcrowding and lack of privacy were common concerns. Nevertheless, the bathhouses remained a vital part of the urban landscape, offering a necessary service to those who could not afford the luxury of a private bath in their own homes. This photograph provides a fascinating window into the past, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of working-class women in London during the mid-19th century. It is a reminder of the importance of access to clean water and sanitation, and the role that communal bathhouses played in promoting public health and hygiene.
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