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Folly Ditch
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Folly Ditch
circa 1860: Boatmen dragging a body out of Folly Ditch, Jacons Island, Bermondsey, London watched by a man standing on a bridge crossing the ditch which is lined with old houses on both sides. The ditch, once an open stream, is now open sewer and the only source of water for drinking in the area. Old and New London (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
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Hulton Archive
Media ID 11798158
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Captured in haunting black and white, this vintage print takes us back to the grim realities of 19th-century London. Folly Ditch, once a picturesque stream flowing through Jacons Island in Bermondsey, has now transformed into an open sewer. In this chilling scene from circa 1860, boatmen can be seen dragging a lifeless body out of the murky waters while a lone figure stands on a bridge overlooking the distressing sight. Surrounded by dilapidated houses on both sides, Folly Ditch serves as a stark reminder of the dire living conditions endured by residents in this area. With no other source of drinking water available, it is difficult to fathom the desperation faced by those who relied on this contaminated stream for their daily needs. The image encapsulates the stark contrast between old and new London; where once there was beauty and tranquility, now lies decay and despair. The presence of death looms heavily over these streets as witnesses gather to observe yet another tragic loss. Preserved by Fine Art Storehouse's meticulous restoration process, this square-format photograph transports viewers back in time to witness an unsettling chapter in European history. It serves as a poignant reminder that progress often comes at great cost and prompts reflection on how far we have come since those dark days.
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