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Charging the retorts at the Beckton gasworks, London, 1878
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Charging the retorts at the Beckton gasworks, London, 1878
Charging the retorts at the Beckton gasworks, London, 1878. Beckton Gasworks was owned and operated by The Chartered Gaslight and Coke Company. When it opened in 1870 it was the largest gasworks in Europe. From The Illustrated London News, 2 November 1878
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Media ID 14840865
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Flame Flames Fuel Gas Works Heat Inferno Men At Work Newham Pollution Power Generation Retort Working Conditions Ann Ronan Pictures Metaphor Wood Engraving
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a pivotal moment in the history of industrialization - "Charging the retorts at the Beckton gasworks, London, 1878". The image showcases the sheer magnitude and power of one of Europe's largest gasworks during its prime. Owned by The Chartered Gaslight and Coke Company, Beckton Gasworks was an emblem of progress and innovation. The scene is ablaze with activity as men toil amidst billowing smoke, fire, and flames. Their faces obscured by soot, they work tirelessly to feed fuel into the retorts that will generate power for a rapidly expanding city. This wood engraving from The Illustrated London News transports us back to a time when manual labor fueled society's advancement. However, amid this inferno lies a metaphorical reminder of both progress and consequence. While these workers harness heat to produce energy for their fellow citizens, pollution hangs heavy in the air - an unintended side effect of industrial growth. In this monochrome snapshot frozen in time, we witness firsthand the working conditions endured by these Victorian-era laborers. It serves as a testament to their resilience and dedication despite challenging circumstances. As we gaze upon this historical artifact captured by an unknown creator over a century ago, it prompts us to reflect on how far we have come since then while also reminding us of our responsibility towards sustainable progress in today's world.
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