I was walking through some of the back streets in the borough of Southwark near London Bridge when I came across a riot of coloured ribbons, flowers, baubles etc attached to some railings. On closer inspection I found this plaque amidst the ribbons:
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| I had never heard of this graveyard so researched it when I got home. Apparently 'Winchester Geese' was the name for prostitutes in this area during the medieval times as the Bishop of Winchester ran licensed houses for the 'Geese'. On their death they were buried on this piece of land and then during Victorian times it became a burial ground for paupers, which then closed in 1853. Although a valuable piece of land locals have resisted all attempts at the purchase of the land for redevelopment. |
A very interesting post, showing how much history can be found around your part of the world. Good on the locals for preserving this historic site!
ReplyDeleteOh, thanks for this interesting tidbit about the shrine. It's a lovely gesture to the forgotten people of the past...
ReplyDeleteSo? You're going to turn up your toes at 70 are you! 70 is the new 60! And I'm busy proving that 81 is the new 18! All the best, anyway.
ReplyDeleteGlad that it’s not been turned into a soulless patch of modern houses.
ReplyDeleteInteresting post.
Stewart M - Australia
Good for the local people! I had never heard of this place, which is really not a surprise. But I am glad that many of those who know about it have the decency to protect the graves of those whose remains are there.
ReplyDeleteI add my kudos to the local people. I also had never heard about this, but really appreciated your post. You made quite the discovery! (From one just retired teacher to another :)
ReplyDeleteThat's beautiful and a little sad. Even the name 'Winchester Geese' sounds more respectful than the term 'prostitute' - who leaves the tributes now, I wonder?
ReplyDeleteInteresting place. I am greeting
ReplyDeleteVery curious!
ReplyDelete