2-888-448 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Scene of the Explosion of the Hounslow [Gun]Powder-Mill, 1850. 'On Monday afternoon, a terrific explosion took place at the powder-mills of Messrs. Curtis and Harvey; and the catastrophe, it is deeply to be regretted, has been attended with a considerable loss of life...When the grounds were entered, a fearful spectacle presented itself, for no fewer than seven of the mills or stores were levelled with the ground, the whole of the contents destroyed, and many of the poor workmen were lying in various directions, some bleeding from wounds, and others burnt and blackened by the force of the explosion...The engines from Hounslow Barracks and other places were in attendance ; but their services were scarcely required, the devastation being so complete'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.