What Was Happening in London in 1889?

By Alice Nichols

London in 1889 was a bustling city with a population of over 5 million people. It was the center of the British Empire and one of the world’s leading industrial and financial hubs. This year marked a significant period in London’s history, as it was a time of great social and political change.

The Jack the Ripper Murders

One of the most notorious events that occurred in London in 1889 was the Jack the Ripper murders. The Whitechapel murders, which were attributed to an unidentified serial killer known as Jack the Ripper, took place between August and November 1888. However, it wasn’t until 1889 that the killer’s name became widely known.

Fun Fact: The name “Jack the Ripper” came from a letter sent to London newspapers allegedly by the killer himself.

The London Dock Strike

Another significant event that took place in London in 1889 was the London Dock Strike. Led by union leader John Burns, over 100,000 workers went on strike demanding better pay and working conditions. The strike lasted for several weeks and eventually ended with some concessions being made to the workers.

The First Sherlock Holmes Story is Published

In 1889, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle published “A Study in Scarlet,” which introduced readers to his iconic detective character Sherlock Holmes. The story was set in London and featured many familiar landmarks such as Baker Street and Scotland Yard.

The Tower Bridge is Completed

Construction on London’s Tower Bridge began in 1886 and was completed in 1894. However, by 1889, significant progress had been made on this iconic landmark. This bridge is now one of London’s most famous landmarks and attracts millions of visitors every year.

Closing Thoughts

London in 1889 was a city full of contrasts. While it was a center of innovation and progress, it was also a place of poverty and inequality.

The events of this year, including the Jack the Ripper murders, the London Dock Strike, and the completion of Tower Bridge, all played a significant role in shaping London’s history and identity. Even today, we can still see evidence of these events in the city’s architecture, culture, and people.