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The Last Day of the Old Smithfield Market, London 1855
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The Last Day of the Old Smithfield Market, London 1855
Last days trading at the Old Smithfield Market, London. Large number of cows, sheep and pigs in pens awaiting sale and slaughter. In the background, the dome of St. Pauls Cathedral is silhouetted. Old Smithfield cattle market was shortly thereafter re-housed in covered premises near Farringdon. Date: 1855
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Media ID 20159575
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Bubblepunk
1855 Cows Pens Pigs Sheep Slaughter Smithfield Trading
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the hustle and bustle of the Old Smithfield Market in London during its final days of operation in 1855. The market, which had been a prominent feature of the city since the Middle Ages, was soon to be relocated to covered premises near Farringdon. In this photograph, large numbers of cattle, sheep, and pigs are crammed into pens, awaiting their fate. The air is thick with the pungent smell of livestock and the sounds of bartering and negotiation. In the background, the iconic dome of St. Paul's Cathedral stands proudly, silhouetted against the smoky London skyline. The contrast between the ancient spiritual symbol and the raw, visceral reality of the market creates a striking juxtaposition. This photograph offers a glimpse into a bygone era, when the daily business of feeding and supplying London's growing population involved such a direct and tangible connection to the land and its livestock." "The Old Smithfield Market, which had been in operation since at least the 13th century, was a vital part of London's food supply chain. However, as the city expanded and modernization took hold, the market became increasingly unsanitary and inefficient. The decision was made to move the market to new, covered premises, which would provide better conditions for both the animals and the traders. This photograph, taken in the market's final days, offers a poignant reminder of the market's rich history and the important role it played in the daily life of Londoners for centuries." "This image, with its powerful sense of history and nostalgia, is a testament to the enduring allure of the past. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which our food systems have evolved over time and to appreciate the complex web of relationships that connect us to the land, the animals, and the communities that have come before us.
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