Drawing of a balloon ascent at Cremorne Gardens by Walter Greaves, 1872

This pencil and watercolour scene by Walter Greaves depicts a typical scene at Cremorne Gardens. Ballooning was the most popular of the attractions. As well as professional fliers the public were invited to make ascents in a captive balloon, which occasionally much to the consternation of the occupants broke loose from their moorings. Local residents complained about increasing noise, disturbance and the less 'socially acceptable' clientele. In 1877 the Vestry refused to renew the licence and the Gardens closed.

Location of original: Chelsea Print Room A3457
Copyright: the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Libraries (RBKC Libraries)

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