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LCC-LFB Fire damage at Arding & Hobbs, SW London
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LCC-LFB Fire damage at Arding & Hobbs, SW London
Firefighters working at the scene of a major fire at Arding & Hobbs Department Store, Clapham, in December 1909. Surprisingly, they have dispensed with their brass helmets, despite the obvious risk of falling debris all around
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7641635
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library
Aftermath Clapham Damage Debris Department Destroyed Destruction Hobbs Major Mess Premises Rubble Ruin Smoky Store Stores December Firefighter Firefighters Fireman Firemen
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In this evocative black-and-white photograph, firefighters from the London Fire Brigade are seen working diligently at the scene of a major fire that ravaged Arding & Hobbs Department Store in Clapham, South West London, during the winter of 1909. The store, a prominent and much-loved establishment in the community, had been reduced to ruins, with debris and rubble scattered haphazardly about. The smoky, messy aftermath of the blaze is evident in the thick plumes of smoke rising from the building's charred remains. Despite the obvious risks of falling debris, the firefighters have dispensed with their brass helmets, opting instead for simpler headgear. This decision, while perhaps surprising to modern eyes, was likely made to enable better communication and agility among the firefighters as they worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to neighboring buildings. The fire at Arding & Hobbs Department Store was a significant event in the history of London's firefighting services, and this photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the bravery and dedication of the firefighters who responded to the emergency. The image also serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive power of fire and the importance of swift and effective emergency response. This photograph, taken by an unknown photographer and available through the Mary Evans Picture Library, is an invaluable historical record of a major fire in Edwardian London and the heroic efforts of the London Fire Brigade to contain it. The scene of the fire, with its damaged buildings and smoky atmosphere, is a stark contrast to the bustling, vibrant streets of Clapham that would have been familiar to the community just a short time before.
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