From 1877 to 1908, London's largest 'ragged' school (free school) operated in Copperfield Road in Mile End.
At that time, there was much poverty and homelessness among children in London and elsewhere and the opportunity of a formal education was the preserve of the upper classes.
Opened by the Irish philanthropist
Thomas Barnardo, the Copperfield Road Ragged School gave poorer children the chance of a decent education.
Very nearly a victim of the wrecking ball in the 1980s, the school building was saved and today is
open as a museum in what is a testament to Barnardo's tireless efforts to improve living conditions for children and change Victorian attitudes to poverty.
The museum includes
a Victorian classroom so children and adults can experience just what it was like to be in school all those years ago. All the original bits-and-bobs are in place – old school desks, slate writing boards, dip pens, ink wells, abacuses, and so on.
There are many interesting collections throughout the museum, such as schoolbooks of the time, certificates, medals, and photos of 19th-century London.
There's also a recreation of an East End kitchen full of original cooking equipment.
The museum is family-friendly and hands-on, giving visitors a unique insight into what life was like more than a hundred years ago for the less well-off in society.
If you want a really authentic experience, then you should
attend a school lesson. Lessons take place on the first Sunday afternoon of each month (a donation of £2 is much appreciated).
Lasting 45 minutes, your teacher, in full Victorian garb, will take you back in time and let you feel the atmosphere of a classroom from a bygone era.
These classes are popular so it's essential to book well ahead. All ages are welcome, but remember to be on your best behaviour – they had corporal punishment back then....
