Sewer Lamp
Sightseeing attraction | London | England | United Kingdom
The "Sewer Lamp" in London, England, also known as the "Webb Patent Sewer Gas Lamp" or "Sewer Gas Destructor Lamp", is a fascinating and unusual landmark that is considered the last remaining example of its kind in the city. This Victorian street lamp is located in a small side street near the Thames and is a relic from the late 19th century, reflecting the engineering and sanitary challenges of the time. Designed by Joseph Edmund Webb, an engineer from Birmingham, the lamp was originally developed to burn off the dangerous and foul-smelling gases from London's sewage system while also illuminating the streets. Today, it is a curious remnant that offers both historical interest and a touch of quirky nostalgia.
The history of the Sewer Lamp begins in the 1890s, when London was suffering from the effects of its rapidly expanding sewage system. After Sir Joseph Bazalgette introduced a modern sewer network in the 1860s to combat the "Great Stink" of 1858, the underground channels remained a problem: methane and other gases accumulated in the tunnels, posing both explosion risks and unpleasant odors. Webb patented his "Sewer Gas Destructor Lamp" in 1895 as a solution to extract and burn these gases through a flame. Originally intended to be powered solely by methane from the sewers, in practice, the gas supply was often insufficient to keep the flame constant. The design was then adjusted so that the lamp was also supplied with town gas, while the heat from the flame continued to draw in and burn the sewer gases. This innovation made the lamp a multifunctional tool: it illuminated the streets while also reducing the dangers and odors from the sewers.
Architecturally, the Sewer Lamp initially appears as a typical Victorian street lamp. It consists of a cast iron post topped with a decorative lantern that burns around the clock. The base is simple but sturdy, and the lantern itself is equipped with a basic glass enclosure to protect the flame. What makes it unique is the invisible connection to the sewage system: a tube system inside the post directs gases from the underground channels to the flame, where they are burned. The lamp stands about 3 meters tall and blends in discreetly with its surroundings, making its historical purpose all the more surprising. A small plaque next to the lamp explains its function and history, making it recognizable to observant visitors.
At its peak, the Sewer Lamp was widely used not only in London but also in other British cities like Sheffield, where the hilly topography made gas accumulation particularly problematic. However, in London, its importance decreased over the course of the 20th century as modern ventilation systems effectively diverted sewer gases through building vents. Most of these lamps gradually disappeared from the streets, either through demolition or modernization, until only this one near a famous luxury hotel remained. A traffic accident in the last few decades damaged the original lamp, but it was replaced by an authentic replica that continues to burn off sewer gases and illuminate the street – a silent testament to Victorian ingenuity.
For visitors, the Sewer Lamp is an attraction that can easily be overlooked if its significance is not understood. It stands in a narrow alley shielded from the bustling streets of the surrounding area, blending in discreetly with the historical architecture. The fact that it burns day and night makes it particularly intriguing after dark, when the flame glows in the darkness and its historical function becomes more apparent. The alley itself was affectionately nicknamed "Farting Lane" by locals due to the unusual lamp, emphasizing its quirky character. Nearby are other attractions such as elegant hotels and Thames riverside paths, making it a short but rewarding detour on a stroll through the city.
The Sewer Lamp is more than just a curiosity – it is a window into London's sanitary history and a testament to the problem-solving abilities of the Victorian era. It tells of the challenges of a growing metropolis, the struggle against odors and disease, and the creative use of technology to improve city life. For the local community, it is a proud remnant, while for visitors, it offers an opportunity to discover a lesser-known facet of London.
In summary, the "Sewer Lamp" is a landmark that combines history, technology, and quirky nostalgia in an impressive way. It tells the story of its origins in the late 19th century as a solution for sewer gases, its role in Victorian city planning, and its status as the last of its kind in London. For visitors, it is a memorable place that brings the invisible world beneath the city streets to life – a small but significant reminder of London's past that continues to illuminate the darkness.
