Explosion at Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co
Date Photo Taken | 30th March 1933 |
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Area | Mitcham |
Copyright 1 | Keystone View Company |
Picture Reference | Mit_Org_Events_8-14 |
Original Format | Photo |
Notes / History | Backs of houses in Belgrave Road with extensive damage from an explosion at the Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co. Messrs Bush & Co. manufactured perfumes under the trading name of Potter & Moore which had a history in Mitcham dating back to the lavender growing of the 19th century. The 7am explosion on the 30th March 1933 damaged up to 200 properties and most of those in Belgrave Road had to be demolished. 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. |