The million-peopled city
Garwood, John
1853
Broomers, and how they might be made to cleanse London.
As during the winter months so many street shoe-blacks cannot be profitably employed as in the summer, a portion of them then become broomers. The shops in Regent-street and Bond-street were canvassed, and to those whose owners were willing to pay Id. a day, boys were sent during the winter of , to each of whom was entrusted the duty of sweeping the pavement from morning to evening before 20 shops, and keeping it clean from dirt. Their earnings about sufficed only for their support. This employment, however, besides being far less lucrative, is much inferior in its discipline. The whole sanitary condition of London might be attended to by boys of this description. It might be extended, almost indefinitely, if suitable persons would devote time to its superintendence. Broomers are now established in , , and . | |