Soho Square

 Soho Square dates back to the reign of  Charles II (1630-85) and there in the middle of the square is his statue. The statue dates from 1681 but was only returned to the Square in 1938 as it had been in private ownership for many years. There are few of the original buildings around the Square left, as many have been replaced by more modern ones including Sir Paul McCartney's company who moved it here  in the 70s when he was in the group Wings. Underneath the square there are said to be many secret underground tunnels and shelters  which were last used during WW2. to protect people from the bombing.

This small building is in the centre of the Square but there was no information on the outside relating to its purpose. I thought it might have been public toilets but apparently not.

But there were other things in the square which took my eye such as a number of more modern sculptures by Bruce Denny.




Intrigue

Ascension






Anyone for table tennis? A recent addition to the square I would think.

Buildings surrounding the square include the House of St Barnabas in Soho which was built in the 1740s. During the 1840s it was taken over by a charity to help homeless women which it still does today. Visitors are allowed to look at the architecture within the building prticularly the crinoline staircase which was built to accommodate the ladies in their large crinoline skirts of the day. Sadly it was closed to visitors when I was there.

This is the penny chute around the corner. It is attached to the railings and coins put in the slot go down the chute into the building. I have never seen this form of a collection box before.

 

On the other side of the square is the house where Mary Seacole lived. Despite being of mixed race she defied the prejudice of the time and helped to nurse wounded soldiers during the Crimean War. Everyone hears about Florence Nightingale but not so much about Mary who actually braved the battle field to help the injured.

I am sharing this post with 'Our World Tuesday'