{Plaque beneath a statue of a bear}
Over a hundred years ago on what was then called Ratcliffe Highway near to this spot stood Jamrach's Emporium. This unique shop sold not only the most varied collection of curiosities but also traded in wild animals such as alligators, tigers, elephants, monkeys and birds. Jamrach's was known to seafarers throughout the world who, when their ship docked in London, would bring artefacts from distant lands in the knowledge that Mr. Jamrach would be a willing purchaser. The animals were housed in iron cages and were well looked after until they were bought by zoological institutes and naturalist collectors.
In memory of Jamrach's, any money collected from the fountain will be donated to the World Wildlife Fund.
Site: Jamrach's Emporium (2 memorials)
E1, Pennington Street, Tobacco Dock
Tobacco Dock is a Grade I listed former warehouse, built in the early 19th century. In the 1990s it was converted into a shopping centre, with the intention of making it the 'Covent Garden' of the east end. The lack of other major retail outlets in the vicinity, and limited public transport, sent it into administration and closure.
The statues can just be glimpsed through the Pennington Street entrance. The building is now only open to the public when it is hosting events. We had to endure a visit to the London Gin Festival in order to gain access.
As you may guess from the photos - when we visited our access was limited to balcony level. The fountain seems dry and is unlikely to attracting many coins nowadays.
We cannot find the name of the sculptor.
Credit for this entry to: Alan Patient of www.plaquesoflondon.co.uk
