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London Street Boys and their soapbox racer
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London Street Boys and their soapbox racer
Five London Street Boys (can you spot them all?!) and their homemade soapbox racer go-cart, fitted with perambulator wheels. Date: circa 1908
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 11558353
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Arabs Boxcar Buggy Gravity Homemade Perambulator Pram Racers Railings Trolley Wheels Soapbox
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph from circa 1908, five London street boys are seen proudly displaying their homemade soapbox racer on a bustling city street. Dressed in their Sunday best, the boys are identified in the original caption, but we invite you to challenge yourself and see if you can spot them all. The intricately designed go-cart, a testament to their resourcefulness and creativity, is fitted with perambulator wheels, adding an unexpected yet effective touch to its design. The scene unfolds on the pavement, where the boys eagerly await their turn to race down the incline, their faces filled with excitement and anticipation. The soapbox racer, a popular form of transport and recreation for children during this era, is a simple yet effective design that relies on the power of gravity to propel it forward. The boys' homemade creation, with its sturdy frame and carefully crafted details, is a reflection of their ingenuity and love for play. The background of the photograph is a vibrant mix of activity, with street vendors selling their wares, trams passing by, and the sound of children's laughter filling the air. The boys' soapbox racer is a stark contrast to the modern modes of transport, such as the trolley and buggy, that are also visible in the scene. This photograph offers a glimpse into the social and historical context of London in the early 20th century, capturing the spirit of play and creativity that exists in even the most unexpected of places.
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