London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Shoreditch 1881

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Shoreditch, Parish of St. Leonard]

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86
To ensure the work done being, as far as possible, of a durable
character, many re-inspections had to bo made, and 252 Jotters were
written, which took up much time; resulting, however, in the
Owners having their work generally well done. A few instances are
again mentioned in detail to show the mode of procedure and the
nature of the work accomplished.
ST. MARY'S LODGE, HAGGERSTONE CHURCH. —In the
Report for the year, 1880, it was stated these premises were
closed, in accordance with the Vestry's order, several cases of
fever having occurred in the lodge, and there being reason to
believe the ground under and around the premises to bo charged
with human remains.
In August of this year it was observed the premises were in
preparation to be again occupied: copies of the Vestry's previous
order and correspondence thereon wore therefore forwarded to the
Minister in charge, which led to the exhumation of the remains
of 81 persons from under and within the walls. The emanations
from these remains were very offensive, and must have been
dangerous to persons living in the house.
The foundation of walls was carried down to virgin soil, a
depth of lift. 6in., on which were built 14in. brick in cement
walls, under-pinning the entire superstructure. The exterior of
these lower walls was cased with impervious material to prevent
the entry of gases from the adjacent graves. The interior was
filled in with lime rubbish, covered with a layer of concrete,
leaving a space of 2ft. under the floor which is thoroughly
ventilated from three sides.