Explosion at Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co
Date Photo Taken | 30th March 1933 |
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Area | Mitcham |
Copyright 1 | Keystone View Co |
Picture Reference | Mit_Org_Events_8-3 |
Original Format | Photo |
Notes / History | Crowds gathering in either Queens Road or Bath Road. Both roads were affected by the explosion at the chemical works of Messrs. Bush & Co. that occurred at 7am on 30th March 1933. An ambulance can be seen parked in front of one of the houses. Twenty three people were injured in the explosion and twelve year old Frederick William Addaway was killed. The explosion was due to a tank of methylated spirits boiling over and igniting. The chemical works was distilling peppermint and lavender following a long Mitcham tradition of distilling perfumes from lavender and other plants. |