| One of the Paddle Steamers
seen mid stream looking to the northern shore in 1962. (they were replaced
in 1963) On the left the dock cranes can be seen along with a bus waiting
on the north terminal. In the middle can be seen a pub with a large 'COURAGE'
sign belongs to the Royal Pavilion public house in Pier Road, North Woolwich.
To the right the fleet of tugs which were always to be found, many of them
named 'Sun' with Roman numerals. In front of the ferry the paddles churn
the water up to a white froth, which although interesting to children was
probably caused by pollution.
The photograph is supplied with thanks
to Chris East from his fathers collection. Chris has the following to say:-
It brought back memories of many a car journey
during the 50's and 60's from our house in Woodford to visit my great aunt
in Eltham. The docks were a hive of activity, and we would regularly be
delayed by ships entering and departing. But why hurry, when there was
so much going on? Memories too of queuing at either side for the next ferry,
and occasionally having the treat of visiting the engine room of the steamboats.
Also have vivid recollection of the queue
of cars in Powis Street (on our return journey) and looking at the windows
of Burton's (I think it was Burton's), which proudly displayed the major
cities of the UK in which they had a presence (probably the 1960's equivalent
of New York, Paris & Peckham!). Also, the constant stream of 96 buses. |
