The Willows Pig Farm: Watercress Growers
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| Partial / Incomplete Date | c.1900 |
|---|---|
| Area | Mitcham |
| Picture Reference | Mit_15_5-8 |
| Original Format | Photo |
| Notes / History | These workers are pictured in the cress-beds belonging to the Dutriez family of Willow Farm, Mitcham. Tending and harvesting the watercress crop was a delicate business owing to the marshy nature of the fields. The plants were grown in ditches, with a more solid walk-way on either side. To reach the crop, workers had to place strong boards planks over the growing area and clamber across, kneeling down to retrieve each plant. The men tied special pads over their knees to ease the pressure on their joints. |
