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Image Licensing : Before Aldwych HSI01_01_026
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Before Aldwych HSI01_01_026
STRAND, WESTMINSTER, GREATER LONDON. Looking north-east along the Strand, past St Mary-le-Strand Church, towards Holywell Street, with the entrance to Drury Court on the left. Photographed as part of a series recording the Holborn and Strand improvement works.
The buildings on the left of this photograph, and Holywell Street and surrounds, were demolished shortly after the photograph was taken to make way for the Aldwych development. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England Archive
Media ID 21951609
Filename: hsi01_01_026.jpg
Size: 5566 x 4154 (5.7MB)
Date: 26th July 2021
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
Street Scene Urban Development Victorian London
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from the Historic England Archive takes us back in time to Victorian London, specifically the bustling streets of Strand, Westminster. The image showcases a street scene that is about to undergo significant urban development. Looking north-east along the Strand, we catch a glimpse of St Mary-le-Strand Church standing proudly amidst its surroundings. The focus then shifts towards Holywell Street, with its vibrant energy and charm evident even in this monochromatic portrayal. To the left of the frame, we see Drury Court's entrance beckoning passersby with an air of mystery and intrigue. However, what makes this photograph truly remarkable is knowing what lies beyond its captured moment. Shortly after this snapshot was taken, these very buildings on the left side would be demolished to make way for Aldwych development – forever altering the landscape and character of this historic area. As we gaze upon this image today, it serves as a poignant reminder of how cities evolve over time. It prompts us to reflect on our own urban environments and consider how they too have been shaped by progress and change throughout history. Through their meticulous documentation efforts, Historic England Archive allows us to immerse ourselves in these transformative moments from yesteryears – preserving our heritage while inspiring curiosity about our shared past.
