Explosion at Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co
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| Date Photo Taken | 30th March 1933 |
|---|---|
| Area | Mitcham |
| Picture Reference | Mit_Org_Events_8-6 |
| Original Format | Photo |
| Notes / History | A photo showing the salvage work in Belgrave Road following the explosion at the chemical works of Messrs. Bush and Co. on the 30th March 1933. In one of the bedrooms shown in the picture, Frederick William Addaway, 12 years old, was found badly injured beneath the debris and died shortly after admission to the Wilson Hospital. He was the only fatality. 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. |
