Linoleum factory destroyed by fire
| Area | Mitcham |
|---|---|
| Copyright 1 | London Borough of Merton |
| Picture Reference | Mit_TomFrancis_Ln168 |
| Original Format | Photo |
| Photographer / Origin of Photo | Tom Francis |
| Notes / History | This picture shows the remains of Hayward's linoleum factory after a disastrous fire in the 1890s. During the Victorian era Mitcham was home to many noxious and offensive smelling industries, from varnish and paint works, to leather tanneries and floorcloth manufacturers. Hayward's was one of several firms producing linoleum. This was a dangerous process involving the use of flammable materials such as oil and turpentine and the risk of fire was ever present. |
