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Blind basket-makers at work, Tottenham Court Road, London, c1901 (1903)
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Blind basket-makers at work, Tottenham Court Road, London, c1901 (1903)
Blind basket-makers at work, Tottenham Court Road, London, c1901 (1903). In 1854 The Association for Promoting the General Welfare of the Blind was established by Elizabeth Margaretta Maria Gilbert (1826-1885). The charity created employment for the blind, opening a factory in 1893 in Tottenham Court Road producing woven baskets, brooms, and upholstery and chair seats. Queen Victoria, William Gladstone, Edward VII and Charles Dickens were notable patrons of the charity. In 1901, the General Welfare of the Blind produced all the mats and other articles used to fit SS Ophir for the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York on their world tour. From Living London, Vol. III, by George R. Sims. [Cassell and Company, Limited, London, Paris, New York & Melbourne, 1903]
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Media ID 14971779
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Basket Basket Maker Basket Weaving Basketry Blind Blindness Charity Disabilities Disability Disabled Elizabeth Employment Gilbert Manufacturing Philanthropy Tottenham Court Road Workshop City Of Westminster
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a poignant moment in the history of blind basket-makers at work on Tottenham Court Road, London, around 1901. The image showcases the dedication and skill of these craftsmen who were employed by The Association for Promoting the General Welfare of the Blind, a charity established in 1854 by Elizabeth Margaretta Maria Gilbert. The charity's factory, opened in 1893, became a hub for producing woven baskets, brooms, upholstery, and chair seats. Notable figures such as Queen Victoria, William Gladstone, Edward VII, and Charles Dickens supported this noble cause. In fact, their patronage helped elevate the status of blind artisans within society. In an extraordinary display of craftsmanship and philanthropy combined, The General Welfare of the Blind produced all the mats and other articles used to outfit SS Ophir for the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York during their world tour in 1901. This photograph offers us a glimpse into both an era when disabled individuals faced limited employment opportunities and a time when charitable organizations sought to change that narrative. It serves as a reminder that determination can overcome adversity while showcasing how artistry knows no boundaries. Preserved through time by George R. Sims' Living London series from 1903 with monochrome elegance captured by Cassell & Company Limited's lens; this image stands as testament to resilience amidst disability while highlighting compassion-driven initiatives like The Association for Promoting the General Welfare of the Blind led by Elizabeth Gilbert.
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