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272
1913]
Cowhouses.—There are now only 5 cowhouses on the register in
Islington, whereas in 1892 there were 31. The few that exist received 53 visits
from the inspector, and were found to be in a satisfactory state. It is noteworthy
that one of the largest and best cowhouses in London, situated near
Finsbury Park, passed from the register during the year. At one time this
cowhouse used to accommodate 50 or 60 cows, which were noted for their
quality, and, indeed, were a pleasant sight to anyone interested in cattle.
Now that is all gone, and Islington has lost one of its glories.
The passing of the London cowsheds is not a matter for entire rejoicing,
for although in theory it is very heartening for consumers of milk to know
that the animals have been fed on splendid grass land and kept in open fields,
yet if they were to see the insanitary conditions in which these cows are fre
quently housed and milked, and the dirty condition of their flanks and udders,
they would not be quite so pleased. The Medical Officer of Health has no
hesitation in stating that however indifferent the cowsheds of the borough may
be, considered in the light of modern requirements, there are existing to this
day hundreds in country places that are a disgrace to the sanitary authorities in
whose districts they are situated. Until closer supervision over our cowsheds
in rural areas is exercised, the Medical Officer of Health for one will not
rejoice at the disappearance of cowsheds from London, where he believes
there are still to be found as good byres as there are to be seen anywhere in
the kingdom.