What Was London Like in 1900?

By Robert Palmer

London in the year 1900 was a vastly different place than it is today. The turn of the century was marked by significant changes in the city’s architecture, transportation, and social fabric that transformed it from a Victorian metropolis to a modern city. Here’s a glimpse into what London was like in 1900.

Architecture

In the late 19th century, London underwent a massive surge of construction and redevelopment, with many of its iconic buildings being built during this period. The Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral were all completed by 1900.

The cityscape was dominated by grand Victorian buildings made from red brick and adorned with ornate decorations. However, the architecture of the time wasn’t just limited to public buildings but also extended to private residences – wealthy families built grand houses with sprawling gardens in fashionable areas such as Mayfair and Belgravia.

Transportation

Transportation in London at the turn of the century was vastly different from what we are used to today. Horse-drawn carriages were still prevalent on the streets, but they were slowly being replaced by electric trams and buses.

The underground railway system also played an essential role in transforming London’s transportation network. The first underground line opened in 1863, and by 1900 there were seven lines operating throughout the city center.

Social Fabric

The social fabric of London society at this time was divided into distinct classes based on wealth and occupation. The upper class lived in fashionable areas such as Mayfair or Belgravia while working-class families resided in cramped conditions in East End slums.

Women’s rights were non-existent compared to today – they couldn’t vote or hold political office. However, women did start campaigning for their rights during this period which led to significant changes later on.

In terms of entertainment, music halls were the most popular form of entertainment, and many famous performers such as Charlie Chaplin started their careers in these venues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, London in 1900 was a city of contrasts – grand Victorian architecture and horse-drawn carriages coexisted alongside electric trams and underground railways. Society was sharply divided by class, and women’s rights were still a distant dream. However, this period marked the beginning of significant changes that would transform London into the modern metropolis we know today.