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159
PUBLIC BATHS AND WASH-HOUSES.
The Baths and Wash-houses, at the junction of Lancaster
and Silchester Roads, Notting Hill, are now in an advanced
stage towards completion, and will probably be opened before the
close of the year. For the majority of parishioners, certainly, the
site will not be found sufficiently central for bathing; and
obviously it is too remote for washing purposes. The same
objections would apply to any single site in the Parish. I am
of opinion that much good might be effected by the provision of
buildings, on a modest scale, in different localities, to which the
poor might resort for the purpose of washing clothing. The
question of public washhouses might with advantage be separated
from that of public baths.
MORTUARY.
The Mortuary in the Parish Churchyard, at the rear of the
Yestry Hall, was opened in July, 1883; in the first year 37
bodies were deposited; in the second year 77; in the third year
100; and in the fourth year 97. The building comprises two
chambers, for infectious and non-infectious bodies respectively,
separated by a "a place provided for post-mortem examinations,"
which is highly convenient, and much appreciated by medical
practitioners. This "place" is designed "for the reception of
dead bodies for and during the time required to conduct any
post-mortem examination ordered by the Coroner ; " who " may
order the removal of the body for carrying out such post-mortem
examination, and the re-removal of such body; the costs of such
removal and re-removal to be paid in the same manner and out of
the same fund as the costs and fees for post-mortem examinations
when ordered by the Coroner." (Sanitary Act, 1866, sec. 28.)
The Coroner now frequently orders the removal of bodies, but at
your Vestry's charge.
The present demands made upon the Mortuary amply justify
the expense incurred in its erection. As time passes the institution
will probably be even more appreciated and used; especially