This Week In London’s History
- Monday – 19th October 2003: After 44 days of being pointless in a perspex box suspended from a crane near Tower Bridge, illusionist David Blaine comes down.
Tuesday – 20th October 1822: The New Observer newspaper, founded by Daniel Whittle Harvey (who would later become the first Commissioner of the City of London Police) is re-launched as The Sunday Times.Wednesday – 21st October 1421: Richard Whittington (the inspiration for panto character Dick Whittington), lays the foundation stone of the Greyfriars Library in Newgate Street.Thursday – 22nd October 1809: The Croydon Canal, linking Croydon to Deptford via Forest Hill, is opened. Requiring 28 locks to overcome the gradients of the route, it would never become a commercial success, and would be closed just 37 years later.Friday – 23rd October 1731: A fire breaks out in Ashburnham House in Westminster, damaging much of the Cotton Library – a renowned collection of Middle English literature. Prompt action by the Speaker of the House of Commons manages to save about three quarters of the collection.London Quote Of The Week
Cam ye o’er frae France? Cam y’doon by Lunnon?
Saw ye Geordie Whelps and his bonny woman?
Were ye at the place, ca’d the Kittle Hoosie
Saw ye Geordie’s Grace ridin’ on a Goosie?
From a Jacobite song alluding to George I’s fondness for visiting brothels.
Image by Tiki Chris
