Explosion at Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co

Explosion at Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co

Buy a copy

For prints:
Contact Merton Heritage Service. Tel.020 8545 3239 Email:

Date Photo Taken 30th March 1933
Area Mitcham
Copyright 1 Keystone View Company
Picture Reference Mit_​Org_​Events_​8-18
Original Format Photo
Notes / History Relief measures following the chemical explosion at the perfume factory of Messrs. Bush and Co. The explosion damaged two hundred houses and left fifty families homeless, mostly from
Belgrave Road where most of the houses had to be pulled down.

The explosion was due to a tank of methylated spirits boiling over and igniting, and injured twenty three people, while one twelve year old resident of Belgrave Road was killed. The chemical works was distilling peppermint and lavender following a long Mitcham tradition of distilling perfumes from lavender and other plants.

Related items

Comments

* Required field