Alfred Salter Playground
Dr Alfred Salter studied medicine at Guy's Hospital and devoted his life to improving living conditions in Bermondsey.
He joined the Bermondsey Settlement in 1898 where he met Ada his future wife. He established a medical practice in Jamaica Road providing a free or sixpence visit for the poor - by this means a local health service was created some twenty years prior to that of the National provision.
Both Alfred and Ada considered that their influence in local government was essential to cure the ills of Bermondsey. Alfred was elected to the borough council in 1903: Ada was elected in 1910 thereby becoming the first female councillor in London. In 1922 Alfred became a member of parliament and Ada became Mayor of Bermondsey. Both Alfred and Ada Salter were instrumental in clearing the slums and creating attractive open spaces to compliment {sic} new houses and business projects. The enhancement of this play space is an attempt to sustain their vision for the residents of Bermondsey.
{Repeated around the border of the plaque:}
Pool of London
Site: Doctor Alfred Salter - SE1 (1 memorial)
SE1, Druid Street, Alfred Salter Playground
Credit for this entry to: Alan Patient of www.plaquesoflondon.co.uk
