In the early 19th century, London was a city captivated by exotic animals. Zoos, travelling menageries, and exotic creatures in private collections fascinated the public, offering rare glimpses of wildlife from far-flung corners of the world. Among these animals was Chuny, an Indian elephant who became one of London’s most tragic and infamous animal residents. His story reflects the shifting attitudes towards animal welfare and entertainment in the Georgian and Victorian eras.

Reflection on the closures of the Groucho Club, Smithfield Market, and a barbershop – signs of a declining London.

ALT: a plane is taking off from a runway and the words pathe are on the bottom of the screen

James Watson (1799–1874) was an English radical publisher, activist and Chartist. Born in Malton, North Yorkshire, on September 21, 1799, Watson’s father died when he was only a year old. His mothe…

William Caddell Lewis was a tougher man to research than I anticipated. We can find out this much from information published in newspapers during his lifetime, or shortly after his demise:  He…