A new book details how unemployed labourers transformed Wanstead Flats and Wanstead Park in the late 19th century.
“When the City of London took over Epping Forest in 1878, the southern area was in quite a mess… There was also an economic depression and local worthies formed committees to support unemployed labouring men and women. These Relief Committees organised public works projects and had a big impact on the area,” explained authors Peter Williams, Mark Gorman and Andrew Cole.
Among the work carried out was the creation of Alexandra Lake on the Flats and the enlargement of Heronry Pond in Wanstead Park by hundreds of labourers working only with hand tools. “The labourers were paid but there were major issues about conditions.”
The 50-page book is priced £6 and available from the Friends of Wanstead Parklands.
The book is available from:
- Email markrgorman2@aol.com
- Emporium No 8, Sebert Rd, E7.
- Newham Bookshop, Barking Rd, E13
- Stone Mini Market, Leytonstone High Rd, E11
- Friends of Wanstead Parklands will have a stock at their regular litter picks in Wanstead Park (2nd Sunday of the month normally)
