Workers constructing a drain.

Repro ID: H1766

Description: Workers from Hamlett's Builders by a trench they have dug for a drain in Canning Town. Much of the original Victorian housing in this part of West Ham was of a poor quality in a poor environment. Many of the terraced houses that were built had no connection to mains water or adequate sewage facilities. Infectious diseases were common until a new drainage and sewage system was constructed at the end of the century.

Creator: Unknown

Date: c. 1890

Credit line: Newham Archives and Local Studies Library collection