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The Rat-Catchers of the Sewers. Rat catchers were vital to keeping down the rat population
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The Rat-Catchers of the Sewers. Rat catchers were vital to keeping down the rat population
The Rat-Catchers of the Sewers. Rat catchers were vital to keeping down the rat population in the London sewers. The rat catcher is using a candle with a simple wind shield to give him enough light to carry out his work. Engraving from London Labour and the London Poor by Henry Mayhew (London, 1861)
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Media ID 9754533
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
1861 Candle Carry Down Give Henry Illumination Keeping Labour Light Mayhew Poor Population Shield Simple Vermin Wind Work Catcher Catchers Sewers Vital
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "The Rat-Catchers of the Sewers" takes us back to 1861 London, a time when rat catchers played a vital role in keeping the city's rat population under control. The engraving, taken from Henry Mayhew's renowned book "London Labour and the London Poor" offers a glimpse into the challenging work these brave individuals undertook. In this particular scene, we see a determined rat catcher diligently carrying out his duty amidst the grimy depths of the sewers. Illuminated by a simple candle with a wind shield, he relies on its flickering light to guide him through this treacherous underground labyrinth. With every step he takes, his goal is clear - to rid England's capital of these vermin that plagued both homes and streets. The image not only captures the physical labor involved in such an occupation but also symbolizes resilience and dedication towards public health. These unsung heroes risked their own well-being for the greater good of society, ensuring that diseases carried by rats did not spread rampantly among London's inhabitants. As we admire this historic engraving from UIG (Universal Images Group), let us appreciate those who worked tirelessly behind closed doors or beneath our feet to maintain cleanliness and protect public health during times long gone.
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