FROM THE EDITOR Secret London is one of my most personal projects so far and definitely the longest journey I have ever embarked on. I am happy that you finally hold in your hands a collection of six places, which I have visited since early December of 2015. I would wake Michal Lachowicz, Editor in Chief up early in the morning, pack my camera, audio recorder and run to the underground station with my @secretlondonmagazine head full of questions for my amazing interviewees in all parts of London. @SecretLondonMagazine
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ver since I can remember, I have always been passionate about travelling and exploring. When I moved to London almost three years ago, I quickly got used to the fact that I constantly ended up in many unique and sometimes very original places. I have always felt that I have a sense of the explorer who likes avoiding touristic paths. This model of sightseeing led me to fascinating discoveries and uncovering many interesting aspects of London’s history and its heritage. I wanted to see more than just a Big Ben or the crowded streets of Piccadilly Circus, which I knew from postcards. After a few months in the Capital I had enough of these clichés, constantly presented in the mainstream media without leaving space for less popular places. I felt that this city, despite its rush and craziness has a lot more to offer.
There were some days when I had to quickly move from one corner of the city to another, using any means of transport possible, including buses, DLR or cabs. I had a chance to meet extraordinary people, who shared their stories with me along with their passion and commitment to their institutions. These conversations took place in all sorts of environments, including for example the little Café Diana, the unique Museum of Fans or the real farm in the middle of Hackney. Over the past few months whilst I have been intensively working on the content of this publication, I tried to keep these places as secret as possible, providing only some teasers on my magazine’s social media platforms. And now here it is! I would like to welcome you to my own, subjective Secret London, composed of places, which are associated with science, art, food industry or nature. I am happy and honoured to finally make YOU a part of this journey.
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Ragged School Museum A Journey Through The History of The Victorian East End
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Secret London CONTENTS MAY 2016
4-5 RAGGED SCHOOL MUSEUM Embark on a journey through the history of the Victorian East End 6-7 HACKNEY CITY FARM Discover a real farm in the middle of the city 8-9 TREASURES OF THE FAN MUSEUM Find out more about the history of this remarkable object and its unique features 10-11 IN CONVERSATION WITH MRS. HELENE ALEXANDER The Fan Museum's Director takes us on a journey into the world of fans
12-14 ALEXANDER FLEMING LABORATORY MUSEUM Read about the original lab where Fleming discovered penicillin in 1928 15-17 CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN Escape from London's hustle and bustle to the kingdom of medicinal plants 18-21 CAFE DIANA Abdul Daoud takes us behind the curtain of his unique meetings with Diana 22 SECRET CROSSWORD Check your knowledge about gems described in the magazine
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Treasures of The Fan Museum 2 People With Passion, One Incredible Story
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Secret London/Mile End
Ragged School Museum A Journey Through the History of the Victorian East End
© Michal Lachowicz
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he fascinating thing about London is that almost every corner has a unique historical background, reflected in monuments, plaques or little museums in particular districts. If you start looking at this city from the perspective of an explorer and step away from the known and touristic track, you will quickly notice how many secret treasures London hides. One of them was waiting for me in Mile End, which I visited on a December morning. When I got out of the tube station and began to walk along the Regent’s Canal- I had this feeling that step by step I was leaving the comfort of the familiar and about to delve into the difficult Victorian times of London’s East End. After a few minutes, I stood at the door of the Ragged School Museum where I was welcomed by its director Erica Davies. Accompanied by creaking floorboards beneath my feet, I embarked on a journey.
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It helped me to discover the darker pages of East London’s history. The museum, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year, was established in 1990 in former warehouses located along the secret Copperfield Road on the side of the canal. It was herefrom 1877 to 1908 where children from local areas, confronted with poverty, diseases and a lack of basic education were taught and therefore had the chance to make a better life. My curiosity, combined with shock and sadness, began turning into admiration for one man in particular- Thomas John Barnardo. He was born in Dublin in 1845 and grew up with a strong sense of helping others. As a 21-year-old man, filled with enthusiasm, he came to London in order to study medicine. The knowledge and experience gained here, was supposed to prepare him to work as a missionary in China. However, what happened next proves that life itself writes the best scripts. Barnardo was overwhelmed by the scale of poverty, conditions of life below the human dignity and the number of deaths, especially among children, caused by cholera outbreak. He decided to change his plans and set a goal to reduce the problem. Focusing his actions particularly on the youngest residents of East London, for whom educational possibilities were simply unreachable, he created opportunities for them in his Ragged Schools. The first one was opened in 1867 and the one in Copperfield Road 10 years later. Under Barnardo’s wings children could escape from harsh reality, feel safe, get a warm meal and receive clothes or school items. ‘’Nobody in the Victorian era was going to make a big transition to being hugely successful in some major career,’’ says museum’s director, Erica Davies. ‘’The aim was to give children a basic education and skills, so that they could earn their living.’’
The morning sun was shining through the windows, lighting up rows of scratched desks with little chalkboards placed on each of them. When I sat down and looked ahead I had a view of an old, yellowed map of the British Isles. I kept looking at the portrait of Queen Victoria and thought that there were only the two of us in the classroom, when suddenly I heard someone else’s footsteps. It was an actress, dressed as a strict Victorian teacher who entered the room. She had characteristic glasses on her face, wore a white shirt and long, burgundy skirt. We looked at each other, smiled and she quickly ran to hide herself behind one of the boards to surprise children, who were about to arrive.
Actress dressed as a strict Victorian teacher
Watch the video!
https://vimeo.com/165241418
What I found unique about this place is that it not only educates visitors through exhibition or information but it also allows one to experience the genuine Victorian lifestyle. Erica says: ‘During the week we offer a Victorian lesson to schools, so three primary schools usually come here every day, from Monday to Friday. However, on the first Sunday of the month we offer this Victorian lesson to all guests. They can be people from six to sixty.’ Spiral, wooden staircase led me to the Victorian Classroom, which is at the centre of the activities and it reminded me of my own school years.
The author of the article at the museum
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Secret London/Hackney
Hackney City Farm Are you tired of London’s rush? Would you like to experience something else? Then why not to visit a real farm in the middle of the city!
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f you are tired of London’s rush and would like to swap the view of crowded streets for a more natural landscape there is one place, still unknown to many Londoners, which provides such a unique experience. I arrived in Hackney with the goal to find an original farm, where for the past 31 years local people have experienced farming and had contact with various animals. My search ended, when I ventured down into a small street and found myself stood in front of the farm’s welcome sign. I was only few steps away from getting into the story of this place and couldn’t wait to meet its manager Chris Pounds, who was my guide during these few hours spent among donkeys, chickens, pigs and sheep. However, before I started a deeper exploration of the farm I sat down with Chris, who took me on a journey through the history of the farm. ‘’The farm is located on the site of old brewery,’’ he said. ‘‘30 years ago in 1984, a group of people got together. They heard about city farms, quite liked the idea and approached Hackney Council, which had a number of disused areas and this was one of them.
© Michal Lachowicz
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So, they asked the council if they can have a lease on it for 100 years to establish a city farm.’’ The aim was to create a space, in which children from local, urban areas could experience farming, country life and learn how to grow vegetables. The beginning of the site’s history dates back to the early 1800s, when the area had been witness to the development of farming and market gardening, which resulted in regular delivery of fresh products to different parts of the city.
Chris said: ‘’You can come down, have a look and adopt any of the animals. Then you get some photographs and a certificate, which tells you about the animal. You also get a chance to come and meet it a couple times a year. If it is a rabbit you can obviously sit with it on your lap or come closer and find out a bit more about the animal.’’ Animal adoptions at Hackney City Farm start from only £15. However, after 2 hours I had to leave the farm and come back to the busy high street. I had to move to another secret place but the mud on my shoes was a constant reminder about this unique place.
“You can come down, have a look and adopt any of the animals. Then
Every pen belongs to the particular group of animals
you get some photographs and a certificate.”
The late 1880s initiated a period devoted to brewing, which has been present here for the next 50 years. The following years entailed the creation of new branches of business, such as furniture makers or button manufacturers, which occupied the area. Thanks to the engagement of the local community, 1982 brought a new direction, which resulted in the formation of the farm. Two years later, the place had started to operate as Hackney City Farm, receiving a one hundred years lease from the council.
- CHRIS POUNDS
It took many years of hard work to transform this initially derelict and neglected place into a thriving farm. The process of bringing the site back to life required renovation of some outbuildings and adapting them to the needs of animals. There are a variety of creative opportunities to spend a day at the farm and everyone can become a part of its daily rhythm, for example through taking part in especially designed pottery or mosaic classes.
Chickens running freely all over the farm
What I found particularly found interesting is that if you feel any bond with particular animal, you can adopt chicken, rabbit or even a pig and support its life at the farm.
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Secret London/Greenwich
2 people with passion,
TREASURES OF THE FAN MUSEUM T
he Fan Museum has opened its doors to visitors 25 years ago, in May 1991. However, this sumptuous opening had been preceded by a five-year period of work, which current director- Mrs. Helene Alexander and her late husband Dicky have spent on planning. The unexpected windfall was one of the factors, which made this project possible and gave it at that time the status of the only museum in the world devoted to fans. Impressive number of 1000 objects gathered by Helene launched the collection, and until today has increased over five times. The Fan Museum is located in two listed, historical buildings from the Georgian era placed on the Crooms Hill- in the neighbourhood of Greenwich Park. Throughout the years museum gathered not only the most diverse and representative collection on fans in the world, but also patronage of eminent personalities such as HRH The Duchess of Cornwall.
The museum’s interior is divided into a few parts. On the ground floor, there is a green room, which holds a permanent exhibition about the history of fans, the way in which they are constructed, and materials of which they are made. I was personally impressed by an Italian olivewood cockade fan, which not only was the first round one that I’ve ever seen but also had a beautiful, patterned decoration and little mirror in the middle of the guard. Exhibits from Europe of 18th and 19th centuries particularly dominate the collection. Due to conservation reasons, only a small part of it can be displayed to the public while the rest is carefully stored. However, there is a catalogue where you can see the museum’s treasures in the digital version on the website.
Blonde tortoiseshell fan Blonde tortoiseshell fan
This variety of choice creates an opportunity to group objects thematically, for example by historical era, geographic location or visual features and then present them in a form of temporary exhibitions. The newest one was opened in January.
“I’m an art historian and I have found fans almost little pages of THE history.” - Mrs Hélène Alexander
one incredible story In the museum's 25th anniversary, Helene still has a spark in her eyes when she talks about anniversary celebrations and achievements of the place. She told me: ‘’The new exhibition is called ‘Treasures of the Fan Museum’ and it comprises some extremely important and historical fans. For instance, we have got a magnificent fan, which was given to Princess Stephanie of Belgium when she married Rudolph, Crown Prince of Austria who committed a suicide. She remained a widow for many years and then she married a Hungarian Count. It is from Hungary that we were able to get this fan.’’
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This little place at Crooms Hill became an inseparable part of Helene’s life. She used to be the first president of The Fan Circle. She travelled to the US, in order to take part in assemblages of The Fan Association of North America. I had to ask her about the most beautiful memory. She said: ‘’I suppose I should say that the Royal visit was very special and the fact that the Duchess of Cornwall agreed to become a patron. However, sadly it was after I lost my husband. The best moment for me was when my husband and I opened The Fan Museum.’’
© Michal Lachowicz In order to find out a bit more about it, I went upstairs for my appointed meeting with the legend of this place- Mrs. Helene Alexander. Her office was one of these places that have a soul. There was a beautiful mirror, a lot of photographs, small charming cups on the cabinet and many other little things, including fans. I quickly forgot that the audio recorder was turned on and simply began listening to Helene’s stories.
Telescopic fans were invented at the end of the 18th century
She said: ‘’Great many of fans come from my personal collection and I’m a very old lady, so I’ve been collecting them for a long time. I’m an art historian and I have found fans almost little pages of the history.’’ Then she adds: ‘’The folding fan came to Europe from the Far East- basically from China and was imported by people who were settling in China, such as the Portuguese who had the colony in Macau. They served for people to cool themselves.’’
Mrs. Helene Alexander in her office
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Secret London/Greenwich
In conversation with Mrs Hélène Alexander - director and founder of The Fan Museum
Secret London’s editor- Michal Lachowicz with Mrs. Helene Alexander
ML: Are you working on any new projects at the museum right now? HA: At the moment I work here as a director. We work towards a sustainable future for the museum. I’m lucky enough to have the most excellent curator, who really understands the objects and I think that we have every possibility of going on, because we have a board of trustees. The museum is not private but independent and is looked after by different types of remarkable people.
ML: It's amazing that museum allows visitors to make their own fans and get involved through the workshops, that you organise here. Could you tell me how the public can attend them? HA: Unfortunately we don’t have much space and we hope to eventually develop this more. At the moment, classes take place on Saturday afternoon. People can get a very close tuition. We are hoping to develop that a little bit more.
ML: Did your work in the Victoria and Albert museum, influenced this hobby?
ML: This museum became a big part of your life. Is there any particular achievement or moment that you are the most proud of?
HA: Not at all. I was already a collector and I worked at the V&A as a volunteer with the wonderful woman, who was a specialist in 18th century dress. She taught me a lot about museums. Sir Roy Strong who was a director at that time, also taught me a lot of things too, for example what not to do in the museums (laugh).
HA: Well, I suppose I should say that you royal visit was very special and the fact that The Duchess of Cornwall agreed to become a patron. However, sadly that was after I lost my husband. The best moment for me if you like, was when my husband and I opened The Fan Museum.
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Š Michal Lachowicz
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Secret London/Paddington
A
lexander Fleming Laboratory Museum
The Home of Penicillin
Did you know that it was within the walls of legendary St. Mary’s Hospital, where in September 1928 Alexander Fleming made his breakthrough discovery of penicillin? Today his original lab houses a unique museum, which I explored together with its curator, notable historian and Fleming's official biographer- Kevin Brown.
Š Wikipedia
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© Michal Lachowicz
Scientific equipment in Fleming’s original laboratory
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n the past, when I heard about Alexander Fleming- I only knew about him a few general facts, with discovery of penicillin in the lead. However, when I began searching for a secret place, which could be associated with the science, I found out that it was in London, where he used to conduct most of the research and his greatest discoveries took place within the walls of the legendary St Mary’s Hospital. Who would have thought that few minutes from Paddington Station, on the left side of Praed Street, there is Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum, hidden just behind the hospital’s forged gate? If you decide to stop in front of the blue plaque, look up and pay attention to the window placed in the second storey above it. Behind it there is an original room, in which Fleming discovered penicillin, in September 1928. I knocked on the door and heard the sound of approaching footsteps. I was just about to meet Kevin Brown- historian of the medicine, author of several publications, but first of all curator of the museum and biographer of Alexander Fleming. When we finally got to the room, I felt like I have just come to the place, which Fleming left few minutes ago, in order to have a short break from doing his research.
I looked around and everything seemed like it was remained intact. In front of me there were three windows. Wooden desk and a windowsill above it were covered with various objects- of all kind of sizes, shapes and even someone who is not interested in science will be able to recognize a few specific things. There was an old, black microscope. Behind it, in a little scientific disorder, there were many kinds of test tubes, bottles made from brown glass, vials, beakers, mortar with pestle, one lonely tweezers and some books with leather covers.
Fleming discovered penicillin in the second storey room above this plaque
‘’It is an actual room, where everything happened,’’ said Kevin. ‘’I think it is a unique selling point and the exciting thing about it. Now, what you see is a reconstruction in the actual room of how it was back in 1928. A lot of the equipment was used by Fleming or his colleagues and I think you have a sense of Fleming having just gone out and being about to come in to discover penicillin.’’ He adds: “Fleming occupied that lab from 1919 until 1933 and in it he made his important discoveries- enzyme lysozyme that is a natural antiseptic within the human body and penicillin.’’
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It took the number of years before museum officially opened its doors for visitors.
Secret London/Paddington For a long time it was only in the realm of plans. In 1989, Kevin joined the team of the St Mary’s Hospital, where he was appointed an archivist and four years later- set up the museum. ‘’I think if it happened before it did,’’ he says ‘’you would have got a conventional museum just full of display cases. Whereas, by the time the museum was opened- as it is now, the idea was to have something more exciting but also it needed to have somebody who actually do the work of setting it all up.’’ The most interesting part of our meeting occurred when Kevin began describing Fleming’s educational path, after his arrival in London, in 1895. 14 years-old Alexander put his first steps at the Regents Street Polytechnic. “Then Fleming became a shipping clerk but he didn’t like it,” says Kevin. “When the opportunity came up to do something when he got a legacy from one of his uncles, he decided to study medicine and got a scholarship.” With this kind of support Fleming began his scientific adventure with the St Mary’s Medical School, where he joined in 1901. The knowledge gained there, opened another opportunities and allowed him to move one step closer towards the University of London degree in medicine. Between 1906 and 1908 Fleming had already an outlined vision of what he would like to do and his greatest ambition was to become a surgeon. However, plans changed and instead of possibilities associated with surgery, he received an offer from St Mary’s Hospital to engage in the issues of the bacteriology. Another testing time came with an outbreak of the World War I, when Fleming together with his department went to Boulogne in France, in order to expand their research, through investigation of war wounds.
Bottles with different substances such as the syrup of squill The cooperation with Almroth Wright resulted in new discoveries in bacteriology. According to Kevin ‘’they demonstrated that that the use of strong antiseptics on battlefield wounds did more harm than good’’. When the war finished, Fleming returned to St Mary’s where he received a prestigious position as an assistant director of the Inoculation Department. In November of 1921 he discovered lysozyme- an enzyme, which is a component for example of our saliva or tears but its antiseptic impact is very little.
Sign above the entrance to the museum
The crowning moment happened of course 7 years later when Fleming discovered penicillin. However, he had to share his Nobel Prize in 1945 with two other scholars- Howard Florey and Ernst Chain, who developed the research on penicillin at the Oxford University and began testing in on patients during the 1940s. The first recipient was a policeman Albert Alexander who injured his mouth while pruning roses. It led to a very serious infection and only the penicillin could help him. It actually did, but only for a while. Unfortunately supplies of the drug finished and he suddenly died.
Times magazine from the same month and year, in which Fleming discovered penicillin
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Welcome to the Kingdoom
Secret London/Chelsea
Chelsea Physic Garden Of Medicinal Plants
Š Michal Lachowicz
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Secret London/Chelsea
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stablished in 1673 by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London- Chelsea Physic Garden is the second oldest botanical garden in Britain and contains an impressive collection of around 5,000 species of plants. Many of them are known for their healing properties, presence in the history or connection with an art. The unique microclimate created by sheltering walls and location by the river, allows to keep alive many tender plants, that are originally known from the most exotic parts of our planet.
I Editor of Secret London- Michal, explores The Cool Fernery full of non-flowering plants
Glasshouse with the flora of The Atlantic Islands
Entrance to the Chelsea Physic Garden
t always amazes me how humans are united with the nature and how many species of plants help us on a daily basis during treatment of various diseases and conditions. Who of us haven’t heard about miraculous healings, or diseases which were successfully cured thanks to the unique values kept in store by the nature? In London’s Chelsea, I managed to discover a secret garden- known not only for its exceptional microclimate, but also for its pioneering actions in terms of plant exchange. It is considered to be a cradle of medicinal herbs in Britain. One January morning, just a few months before everything will begin to bloom, I opened the doors of Chelsea Physic Garden, where I discovered how strong the connection is between medicine and nature. This remarkable collection of plants was established in 1673 by Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London. Among the oldest botanical gardens in Britain, Chelsea Physic Garden is placed in the second position- just behind the one at The University in Oxford, which creation dates back to 1621. The mission cultivated by Apothecaries was to set up a place, which not only would be a home for a variety of species, but also would fulfil educational functions by providing an outdoor experience for their apprentices. Under the guidance of experts, students were educated in the natural environment. Why this particular area of London was chosen to create the garden? First of all, it is located close to the river and this in connection with sheltering walls- creates a mild microclimate. As a result, many tender species, that are originally from Mediterranean countries or Canary Islands, are kept alive. The largest in the country fruiting olive tree in the country (located here), can stand as a perfect example.
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Many people have contributed to the development of Chelsea Physic Garden since its establishment, taking it out of different crises. Under the guardianship of John Watts, who was the first curator, the site got the first greenhouses warmed by an external stove. This pioneering solution, unknown anywhere in Britain before, created comfortable environment, which allowed many tender plants to grow. Another eminent personality, who remained in the history of this place, is Hans Sloane whom you probably know from the name of tube station Sloane Square placed on the District Line.
British native plants around the Tank Pond
He began his career as one of the apprentices in 1680. After finishing education several years later, he embarked on a journey to Jamaica. It was a wonderful experience, which led to incredible medical discoveries. During this expedition, Hans managed to obtain a mixture of plants and discover healing aspects of cacao, which in consequence made him very rich.
Other issues emerged along the way including, for instance, the risk of building a railway line running through the site. In the middle of the 19th century, financial problems deepened and the future of the Garden was again put under a question mark. However, the end of this period brought a new direction as the place was taken over by a charity. As a result, new improvements were conducted, including the emergence of next glasshouses. The culminating moment took place in 1984, with the establisment of Chelsea Physic Garden Company, which was a result of worries that the charity, which took over the site may leave. The money raised by friends and workers allowed to create a new charity, save the Garden and made it accessible to visitors .
Garden of useful plants (hygiene and cosmetics) After returning to London with wide financial possibilities, Sloane bought the Manor of Chelsea- together with its secret Chelsea Physic Garden. To show his gratitude for the Apothecaries, he decided to rent them the site, requiring only a small sum of ÂŁ5 per year. Golden years of this place came together with Philip Miller, who joined the team as the Head Gardener in 1722 where he had stayed for the next 50 years. At that time the Garden became an absolute leader in terms of plant exchange in the entire world. Throughout the 1800s Apothecaries have been facing difficulties associated to securing the uncertain future of the place. Between 1815 and 1846, financial resources were incomparably smaller. The positive light that appeared at the Garden came with new solutions and ideas including sealed- unit glasshouse, which allowed to transport plants over far distances.
The Garden is divided into different sections , associated with medicinal, edible, useful or British plants. I saved the last memories on my camera in the Cool Fernery full of mysteriously growing ferns.
One of the trails with snowdrops
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Secret London/Notting Hill
CAFE DIANA Š Michal Lachowicz
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here are many places in London that commemorate Princess Diana. One of them is a little cafe located a few minutes away from the Notting Hill Station. Before she died in a tragic car crash in Paris, she used to come here once in a while for a cup of coffee and even became friends with the owner- Abdul Daoud.
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In remembrance of People's Princess
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he was cited as the most famous woman in the world, the Marilyn Monroe of our generation. But after Diana Princess of Wales' fairy-tale wedding to Prince Charles on 29th July 1981, her life had turned into that of a soap opera- witnessed not only by the media but also entire world. Her unique aura, presence and style made her an established icon and led to development of remarkable stardom, which at some point became out of control. During the peak of her activity she was on the cover of almost every magazine, getting maximum attention. Diana’s legendary appearances at royal banquets, movie premieres or charity meetings had been widely reported on, as was her unique ability to connect with strangers in the crowds. She was a great star, but also a normal and humble person- with a huge heart and a mission to use her position in order to provide help for the ones who needed it the most. She wasn’t afraid of close contact with patients suffering from AIDS and broke many stereotypes thought of the disease. She also participated in many journeys to distant countries affected by various crises, such as Cambodia or Angola. On 31st August 1997- the world held its breath when tragic news from Paris caused worldwide mourning.
Signed photograph, which Diana brought to the cafe in 1989
Editor of Secret London- Michal, in conversation with the cafe's owner Abdul Daoud
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Secret London/Notting Hill Several minutes after leaving legendary Hotel Ritz, located on Place Vendome, Diana together with her lover Dodi Fayed and Henri Paul (the Ritz’s deputy head of security) were involved in a car accident in the Alma tunnel. The tragic events consequently resulted in the death of all passengers. Doctors had been fighting for Diana's life for a several hours before the following morning, when the world lost its Princess. Her funeral on 6th September gathered crowds on the streets of London, but also many eminent people during farewell in Westminster Abbey.
Entrance to the Cafe Diana There are plenty of places in London, that commemorate Diana’s heritage, including an original fountain in Hyde Park and various monuments or walks. In this way, she will be remembered forever. I, personally, managed to find a unique cafe- where her spirit is still present and I had an opportunity to feel it through words and memories of one man- Abdul Daoud. Café Diana was established by Abdul in 1989 near Kensington Palace, on the way to Notting Hill station. There are thousands of cafes in London, but what makes this one special is the fact that Diana used to be a regular visitor. At the beginning Abdul didn’t know how he would name the place. He says: ‘’I bought this shop in 1988. I was doing construction works to create a coffee shop, but I still needed to choose a name. I didn’t know what to call it. One day, I saw police stopping the traffic and Princess Diana came out with her two sons. I wondered what was going on and then someone said that Diana is taking the two Princes to school. That inspired me to call this place Café Diana.’’
When I entered the café for the first time, it seemed pretty much like any other. However, when I looked at the memorial wall, everything changed. It was covered with photographs of Diana from various private and official events throughout her life. Some of them, for example the ones taken by Mario Testino, were so iconic- that I quickly recognised them from Diana's cover star days. I also noticed a real treasure- a beautiful photo originally signed by Diana and dated from 1989. It was placed on the wall just above my head. ‘’There was a nice black and white picture by a photographer David Bailey,’’ said Abdul. ‘’My daughter really liked it and I just mentioned it in conversation with Diana. Few days later she came back with a signed photo and told me to give it to my daughter. I asked if she didn’t mind to hang it here on the wall and she said it was mine. So, after that I started to put pictures all around.’’ While sitting at the scarred table, Abdul took me back to the moment when he first met the Princess. ‘’Well, the first time she came in I was in the shop and I really didn’t know how to behave. When I offered her a coffee my hands were shaking. However, as soon as she started talking to me, I felt that she was a very normal and humble person but her presence was still one of the fairytale princess. She was so beautiful but at the same time very calm and during conversations she had this ability to make you feel like you'd known her for a very long time. She had that gift.’’ Diana’s usual order at the cafe was a cup of coffee and a croissant. Occasionally, she was accompanied by sons- William and Harry, who loved eating their English breakfasts here. Every time when her sons joined her, she would ask Abdul for discretion. This provided a slither of the normality she craved for. Her close friendship with the cafe's owner is visible not only in the way he speaks about Diana, but also warm letters that he had received from her throughout the years. You can see them among photographs, beautifully framed and mainly dated back to the late 90s.
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D
id you know that before Diana married Prince Charles and became a part of The Royal Family, she used to live with her flatmates in a flat located in this building at 60 Coleherne Court- few steps away from the Earls Court station? It was purchased by her mother.
Š Michal Lachowicz
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SECRET CROSSWORD
Across 4. Where the oldest botanical garden in Britain is located? 7. What is the name of the city, in which Alexander Fleming worked after the I World War broke out? 11. What kind of job Fleming didn't find enjoyable after his arrival in London? 13. Surname of an Irish man, known for his philanthropic activities for children during the Victorian times in London. 14. Who photographed Diana on the autographed picture, which she brought to the cafe? Down 1. What is the name of the gardener who has worked in Chelsea Physic Garden for 50 years, during the place's golden period? 2. What is the name of the street where Alexander Fleming Laboratory is located? 3. What did Alexander Fleming study at The University of London? 5. Ragged School Museum is located alongside one of London's canals. What is its name? 6. Where did Hans Sloane discover healing properties of cacao? 8. What is the surname of The Fan's Museum main patron? 9. What occupied the site of Hackney City Farm in the past? 10. What was the name of Mrs. Helene Alexander's late husband?
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Philip Miller, Praed Street, Medicine, Oxford University, Regents Canal, Jamaica, Boulogne, Parker Bowles, Brewery, Dicky, Shipping Clerk, Guard, Barnardo, David Bailey
It's time to check your knowledge about secret places described in the magazine. If you read everything carefully it shouldn't be a problem for you to guess what kind of words are hidden behind the clues below. Good Luck!