The History of the Port of London: A Vast Emporium of All Nations
The fascinating story of the rise and fall and revival of the commercial river. The only book to tell the whole story and bring it right up to date, it charts the foundation, growth and evolution of the port and explains why for centuries it has been so important to Britain’s prosperity.
The River Thames has been integral to the prosperity of London since Roman times. Explorers sailed away on voyages of discovery to distant lands. Colonies were established and a great empire grew. Funding their ships and cargoes helped make the City of London into the world’s leading financial centre. In the 19th century a vast network of docks was created for ever-larger ships, behind high, prison-like walls that kept them secret from all those who did not toil within. Sail made way for steam as goods were dispatched to every corner of the world. In the 19th century London was the world’s greatest port city. In the Second World War the Port of London became Hitler’s prime target. It paid a heavy price but soon recovered. Yet by the end of the 20th century the docks had been transformed into Docklands, a new financial centre.
The History of The Port of London: A Vast Emporium of All Nations is the fascinating story of the rise and fall and revival of the commercial river. The only book to tell the whole story and bring it right up to date, it charts the foundation, growth and evolution of the port and explains why for centuries it has been so important to Britain’s prosperity. This book will appeal to those interested in London’s history, maritime and industrial heritage, the Docklands and East End of London, and the River Thames.
“Peter Stone and the publisher are to be congratulated on producing a book, which covers the history of the Port of London from the Romans to the present day, in a great amount of detail and for a very reasonable price… this book can be thoroughly recommended to anyone wanting an up to date history of the Port of London in one very accessible, indexed and readable book.”
Derek Morris, London Topographical Society Newsletter
“The History of the Port of London is an extremely comprehensive volume, complete with maps and black and white photos.”
Towpath Telegraph magazine
About the Author
I come from a family of Londoners, stretching back many generations. I love the diversity of the city… the different areas, the different people and ethnicities. London constantly evolves and in just my own life I have seen a great deal of change. It is this constant progression I find so interesting and as I have grown older I found myself wanting to learn about how London developed to this point.
In the past twenty years or so I have recorded what I have learnt, building a sizable database of historical information. Learn more ›
