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81
I have shown above, that the mortality of the past year has
not appreciably diminished. Considering the large number of
nuisances remedied in the Parish, and the improvements effected,
it might be argued that these really did not relate to sanitary
matters. But this would be a rash conclusion, considering the
short time that has elapsed since they were effected. At the
same time, I am convinced that in an overcrowded or overpopulatel
parish like ours, the main point to be attended to is
the manner of living and the habits of the rougher members of
the community—especially greater attention to cleanliness, and
more orderly living; for most of the undue mortality occurs
among the dirty, negligent, and disorderly part of the population.
Among the important improvements made in the Parish, in
the last year or two, must be particularly mentioned:—The
opening of the disused Spa Fields Burial Ground; a fine open
space of an acre and a half, adapted as a playground for children.
This belongs to the Marquis of Northampton; and was drained
and set in order, at the cost of £250, paid by the Metropolitan
Gardens Associatiou, through Lord Meath (Brabazon). The
Northampton Square Gardens, of one acre, and the Wilmington
Square Garden, of one acre, two roods; both laid out and planted
at the expense of C. C. Walker, Esq., of Lillieshall, Salop, at a
cost of £1,030. The two latter are now taken over by the
Vestry, who will keep them in order. It need scarcely be stated
that these open gardens will afford opportunity of quiet exercise,
and must be of great benefit to the health of those who
make use of them.
Another important proceeding is the action of the Vestry in
replacing tho hard paving stones of the smaller streets and
courts by asphalte. As these places are often the only playgrounds
the children, have many a fall which, against the stone,
would perhaps produce disease of the joints or bones, will be
prevented from so doing.