Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Fire Brigade
Major fire, Smithfield Poultry Market, London
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Major fire, Smithfield Poultry Market, London
Firemen entering the basement of the major fire in the Smithfield Poultry Market on 23 January 1958 that had already cost the lives of two firemen, Station Officer Jack Forte-Wells and Fireman Richard Stocking, both from Clerkenwell fire station, the first crews on the scene
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7640523
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library
1958 Apparatus Basement Breathing Crew Crews Major Markets Oxygen Poultry Smithfield Firefighter Firefighters Firefighting Fireman Firemen January
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Fire Brigade
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> London Fire Brigade
> Popular Themes
> Firefighters
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative black-and-white photograph, firemen from the London Fire Brigade brave the danger of the Major Fire that engulfed the Smithfield Poultry Market on 23 January 1958. The market, a bustling hub of activity in the heart of London, was known for its lively atmosphere and the fresh produce sold there. However, on this fateful day, the market became a scene of destruction and tragedy. The first responders on the scene were crews from Clerkenwell fire station. As they entered the basement of the burning building, they were met with thick, choking smoke and intense heat. The fire had already claimed the lives of two brave firemen, Station Officer Jack Forte-Wells and Fireman Richard Stocking. Their colleagues, seen here in the photograph, are equipped with oxygen masks and other essential firefighting apparatus. The importance of these breathing apparatus cannot be overstated, as they allowed the firemen to enter the smoke-filled environment and attempt to save lives and extinguish the flames. The London Fire Brigade, founded in 1865, had a long and proud history of service to the city. Despite the risks involved, these firefighters, with their unwavering dedication and courage, continued to put their lives on the line to protect the people and property of London. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave men and women in the line of duty. The Major Fire at the Smithfield Poultry Market was a significant event in the 1950s, a decade marked by social and cultural changes. This photograph, taken in the midst of the crisis, offers a glimpse into the past and the heroism of the London Fire Brigade.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
