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_8-7 |
| Original Format | Photo |
| Notes / History | A damaged shop at 34 Belgrave Road Mitcham following the explosion at Messrs Bush and Co, a manufacturing chemist. The three acre works backed onto Belgrave road where most of the damage occurred. This was one of six shops in the area that was damaged. The factory was at the rear of the road and suffered most of the damage. Sightseers arrived from surrounding districts as the 7am explosion had been heard and felt over much of South London and was reported by the national as well as the local press. 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. |
