PIN Cabmen’s Shelters

Cabins build for cabbies

In 1875 the Cabmen`s Shelter Fund was established in London to run shelters for the drivers of hansom cabs and later hackney carriages.
`Cab` drivers could not leave the cab stand while their cab was parked there. This made it very difficult for them to obtain hot meals and could be unpleasant in bad weather. Eventually the Earl of Shaftesbury and some other worthies took it upon themselves to set up a charity to construct and run shelters at major cab stands.

The shelters - small green huts -there is a prominent one in Russell Square - were not allowed to be larger than a horse and cart, as they stood on the public highway. Between 1875 and 1914, 61 of these buildings were built around London, the first being on Acacia Road, St John`s Wood. Most were staffed by an attendant who sold food and non-alcoholic drinks to the cabbies. They were provided with a kitchen in which the attendant could cook or eat the food they bought from home.

The attendant was unpaid, but was expected to make an income from their sales. The shelters were also provided with seats and tables and books and newspapers, most of them donated by the publishers or other benefactors. Gambling, drinking and swearing were strictly forbidden.

The shelters are still there today.

Triptide thoughts

Great to see a bit of Old London still is use , if you just go through the park take the time to look at it

Not a lot of people know that but ...

Thirteen of these distinctive green sheds are scattered around London's streets. These are the survivors of the 1875 programme to provide hansom cabs with food and shelter. The public are allowed to purchase from the outside hatch but are never allowed to enter.

Owner

William Souef

I am a passionate Frenchman who loves London with its history, culture and diversity. I am living in Wandsworth during a six month internship during which I am enjoying London life to the full....