Explore Bengali history in and around Brick Lane
OBJECT
The walk starts in Altab Ali Park, named after a Bengali leather garment worker who was murdered in 1978. The racially motivated killing took place on Adler Street, near the park – then known as St Mary’s Garden. His murder galvanised a community to fight against racism. After a long struggle, the park was renamed in memory of Altab Ali in the 1990s.
EVENT
In this guided walk, discover more about the Bengali community who have made this part of London their home for nearly 400 years. Tower Hamlets has a long tradition of welcoming immigrant populations from all over the world including Huguenots in the 18th century and Jews in the 19th century. Now one third of the population in Tower Hamlets is Bengali, making it the largest Bengali community in the UK. Early Bengali residents left few signs or buildings to mark their presence but some clues still remain. The thriving streets of the modern East End of London offer a fascinating insight into the British Bengali community’s significant contribution to contemporary UK culture, from music and food, to politics and architecture.
Visiting
Starting point: Altab Ali Park, Whitechapel. E1. Nearest tube Aldgate East
Finishing point Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London E1 6QR
Approximately 1.5 hours
More info and map: http://swadhinata.org.uk/document/bengali-history-walk.pdf
To attend please register your interest at admin@swadhinata.org.uk
Cost £8.00 for employed & concession rate £6.00 for unemployed, students & elderly
https://historicengland.org.uk/get-involved/visit/london-history-day/swadhinata-trust
