On the advantages to be derived from the adoption of the Local Government Act, as exemplified in Croydon / by Edward Westall.

  • Westall, Edward.
Date:
1865
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: On the advantages to be derived from the adoption of the Local Government Act, as exemplified in Croydon / by Edward Westall. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by The Royal College of Surgeons of England. The original may be consulted at The Royal College of Surgeons of England.

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    The population of Croydon increased from 5,743 in 1801, to 30,240 in 1861, and is now computed at about 40,000; that of the town proper about 18,000—the ratio per house being, in 1851, 6^; in 1861, 5§; and now about 5f. The more favourable condition in the ratio per house arises chiefly from the large number of first-class cottages recently erected; also, from the care bestowed by the police in their regulations for Lodging-houses, and the stringent bye-laws of the Local Board. The increase of population is, despite of the removal of three large establish- ments — the London District Schools, the Addiscombe College, and the Barracks—in all embracing from 1,500 to 2,000 persons. Having been a member of the Local Board of Health for nearly ten years from its first election, I may be sup- posed to have had some experience; and I will now, in a few words, offer such advice as that experience will warrant. First, medical men should take the initiative in all sanitary movements. We have proved in Croydon that much may be done in educating the poor and lower classes, to the value of cleanliness, health, and comfort. Next to the clergy—indeed, often before them—none have so good opportunities as members of our profession. I say it in all thankfulness, that in Croydon, with rare exceptions, they were foremost in action; and, in addition to other means, many hundred pamphlets were distributed amongst the cottagers, and read by them, chiefly published by the Health of Towns Association. Next, I would say, Be not content with half measures. To meddle, bit by bit, is to ensure mischief. I could readily illustrate this by reference; but it is needless. Obtain full powers at once, and, with the examples of other towns before you, the best systems will be adopted. There need be no battle of pipe- gauges; no question of water-supply, excepting as to the best sources. Care should be taken to remove all existing nuisances, such as gas-works, slaughter-houses, and public