Before 1750, the Thames was the capital’s main thoroughfare. At that time London was ‘a river city’ like Venice. The bustle of the town was talking place on the Thames. Besides entertainment, the river was a host for ships heading for London’s huge trading port.
After the Industrial Revolution, all this changed and the former beautiful river turned into a giant sewer, caused by the flush lavatory which led its cargo straight into the Thames.
Today the river is a quiet place in the capital, but if it is up to mayor Boris Johnson it will be restored to its old grandeur..
After the Industrial Revolution, all this changed and the former beautiful river turned into a giant sewer, caused by the flush lavatory which led its cargo straight into the Thames.
Today the river is a quiet place in the capital, but if it is up to mayor Boris Johnson it will be restored to its old grandeur..
The picture of all these people in the 18th century, enjoying themselves on the river, resembles to the current image of the jolly-boats that one can see on a sunny day in the canals of Amsterdam. Thinking of it, the words sun, (clean!) water, boats and people fit rather well together, although this is not entirely true because these words could also refer to a dark scenario of war. I suppose ‘freedom’ should be added to these words to keep it nice and peaceful. I hope Mayor Johnson will shortly launch his plan to revive the river again....so, I can experience it while doing my stay abroad next year.
Diamond Jubilee: The remarkable tale of the River Thames / 28 May 2012 / BBC News
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-18185000
I think the Thames has been cleaned up especially for the Queen,who will be "sailing" down the river Thames this weekend in a flotilla together with her husband prince Philip in honour of her Diamond Jubilee (60 years) being on the throne. It is sad that an occasion like this is needed to clean the river, but I am sure they have done something about it.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenWhy this is one of the positive side effects of the Queens' Diamond Jubilee celebration events! I do think that London deserves a well-kept and grand Thames. The world already has it Venice, but the river Thames can be just as attractive in its unique way for both tourist and locals to enjoy.
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