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14
SANITARY CHRONICLES, 1896.
Two Vans, one for the conveyance of goods, which
have been superficially disinfected by fumigation,
a second for conveyance of disinfected goods to
the owners of the same.
One Cremator.
This is a contrast to sixteen years ago, when the disinfecting
appliances consisted of a small hand-cart or truck,
and a gas disinfecting apparatus. At that time the
scorching of goods or actual setting them on fire was a
somewhat frequent occurrence, for the gas machine required
constant and unremitting attention. At that time, also, the
bulk of infection was not known, because the notification
of disease was not compulsory. Articles requiring to be
destroyed by fire were burned in the open on the banks of
the Canal, and this last practice prevailed until quite
recently.
THE ST. MARYLEBONE SHELTER.
The Shelter that the writer would have liked to have
seen erected, and one that he in fact recommended, was a
special building in structural connection with the
disinfecting chamber. Plans and estimates were indeed
favourably considered for the furtherance of this scheme
by both Committee and Vestry; but as it happened a
change was made at the Stone Yard, and the Surveyor's
official residence was given up. It was then proposed that
this residence should be utilised. The result is a fair
Shelter, and one that is superior in comfort to most of those
in the other parts of the metropolis, although far inferior to
the shelter which, had the circumstances above mentioned
not happened, would have been erected.
As the annexed plans and sections show, the Shelter is
an ordinary residence containing seven rooms and a kitchen.
It might accommodate at one time three, or even five,
families for a short time. The rooms are fitted up with
beds and simple furniture, there is a single bath with hot
and cold water, and there are appliances for cooking. The
Shelter is under the charge of Miss Kilgallin, who has
performed her duties with care and fidelity.