Stamford Improvement Commission Meeting. Foul Smells in Stamford 1854

Submitted by Chris Hunt

Mr English pointed out the great necessity that existed for an inspection of nuisances in the town. Fever was prevalent in some parts, and noxious smells from pigsties and cesspools had a tendency to increase the epidemic. He did not exactly know upon which public body the burden lay for correcting the evil, but it must be apparent to everyone that with fever in the town and cholera in the country, the utmost precaution should be taken to ensure general cleanliness. Mr. Paradise said he was glad the subject had been mentioned, for though the duty pointed out properly came under the direction of the Poor-law Guardians, it could not be too strongly urged before each local Board. There were some places in the town so exceedingly offensive that it was not at all surprising to hear of the prevalence of fever; and those who knew the value to a community of sanitary precautions could not interfere too actively to procure the abatement of nuisances. Mr Horden and the Chairman said it was very desirable that an inspector should be appointed at the present critical time’ and the Clerk having explained that the duty of instructing and paying an inspector was by the Legislature imposed on the Poor-law Board, it was agreed by several Guardians present to introduce the subject at the Union meeting on the following day.

SOURCE

STAMFORD MERCURY (FRIDAY) SEPTEMBER 1ST 1854 p3/c2

Note Stamford was not a genteel town with modern Victorian infrastructure in 1854 and was still restricted in its growth by the then Marquess of Exeter. The above report comes from a meeting of the Stamford Improvement Commission held on August 29th 1854. The commissioners present on the day were Messrs. Fysh (chairman), Horden, Wright, Sandall, Paradise, Duncomb, Howes, English, Groves, Baker and Lumby.

A print version can be downloaded HERE