Posted on 9th November 2017
The land in which Fish Island sits dates back to 1865 and was originally used as a gas works. The Gas Light and Coke Company established Fish Island as a small factory town, but it was severely damaged during World War II. Since then, this part of East London has transformed into a bustling hub for artists and designers, with the artistic culture on display wrapped around each façade telling a new story. Fish Island Village continues to breathe new life into the area and it has also stayed true to its roots. The fascinating heritage is kept alive by the new apartment buildings which have been named after the Gas Light and Coke Company’s fleet of ships.
The Gas Light and Coke Company had a very varied transport fleet, including ships, barges, railway wagons and locomotives which were used to transport coal into the gasworks and horse drawn carriages for local deliveries. This specific fleet of ships played an integral part during World War I, with many ships serving successfully. Following the War, a selection of the ships were sold on to other countries such as Sweden or are now privately owned, where they have been re-engined to serve a new purpose.
SS Suntrap built in 1929, passing Woolwich en route the Thames in 1931.