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From the mid 19th century chemical production in the Thames Gateway was linked at first to the by-products of nearby gasworks.

“They used to burn everything in them days”

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In the 20^th century, energy production and supply along the Thames, east of Tower Bridge, was a vital element of the industrial success of the area.

“You could only be in for an hour because of the heat”

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Engineering has played a crucial role in the history of East and South London.

“You did not speak to the foreman. The foreman didn’t even speak to you.”

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Five markets provided the focus for this theme, Stratford, Queens Road and Rathbone Street markets in Newham; Romford market in Havering and Woolwich market in Greenwich.

“From about the age of five or six I was working on the market”

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The creation of the textile factories around Harold Hill in Havering is a remarkable story of social engineering.

“I knew from my mother I would end up machining”

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Printing in the Thames Gateway was a diverse and important industry based throughout the West Ham area.

“Take this ticket to the Father of the Chapel and we'll give you a starting date”

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Food processing and brewing played a major role in the industrial development and subsequent history of the region.

“Suddenly it was all button pushing and programming”

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Transport has always been integral to the development of industry in East and South East London; it was also key to it’s decline and regeneration plans.

“We were taking bread out of their mouths”