In the heart of Barrow-in-Furness, beneath the everyday hustle and bustle, once existed a hidden social hub for Victorian women. This underground lavatory, built around 1889 (give or take a few years), was a far cry from its modern counterparts, offering a space for more than just practical needs. It was a place for gossip, camaraderie, and a touch of everyday luxury. Join us as we uncover the secrets of this forgotten sanctuary, exploring the lives and routines of the women who once sought refuge in its tiled walls.
Victorian Values, Underground Luxury
Descending the stairs, the clatter of heels on tile echoing in the cool air, ladies would enter a haven of unexpected luxury. The underground lavatory was far from a dingy pit stop. Designed with elegance in mind, it boasted gleaming white tiled walls, the scent of carbolic soap lingering in the air, and the comforting warmth of sandstone pillars supporting the roof. Polished brass handrails guided visitors down the stairs, their touch cool and reassuring against gloved hands.
The walls sparkled under the gaslight, reflecting off the white tiles and creating a sense of spaciousness that belied the subterranean location. The rhythmic drip of water from gleaming brass taps filled the air, mingling with the soft murmur of conversation. Ornate mirror frames, catching the light, showcased ladies touching up their makeup or adjusting their hats. Even the coat hooks and umbrella stands that lined the walls were crafted from polished brass, their surfaces gleaming with care and attention to detail.
Interestingly, the lavatory featured a remarkable number of sinks, ranging from 16 to 17 depending on the specific plan used, compared to only two toilet cubicles. This unusual ratio highlights the emphasis placed on personal hygiene and grooming in Victorian society. The air hummed with the gentle rustle of skirts and the clink of porcelain as ladies washed their hands in the ample sinks. Each sink was equipped with a gleaming mirror and a small shelf, perfect for placing rings or a compact of face powder. It was a place for ladies to maintain their appearance and enjoy a moment of respite from the busy world above.
Lost and Found, Then Lost Again
Sadly, this underground oasis was short-lived. Deemed impractical for modern use, it was reburied soon after its rediscovery. But its story lives on, a reminder of the hidden history beneath our feet and the everyday routines of the women who once frequented this unique space.
A Glimpse into the Past
While we may never get to experience the underground convenience firsthand, the historical plans and recent discoveries offer a fascinating glimpse into Victorian life. From the carefully planned layout to the luxurious materials, this forgotten lavatory tells a story of elegance, practicality, and a time when even public facilities were designed with care and attention to detail.
Interestingly, the rediscovery of this hidden gem was sparked by a reader named John Kendall, who reached out on March 28, 2024, after reading our blog post on Barrow-in-Furness myths and folklore about underground tunnels. He and his wife remembered seeing a newspaper clipping about the underground lavatories. I had a photo of the underground lavatory but had never noticed the fence next to the town hall until it was pointed out to me at the Cumbria archives today. I had been searching for toilets all over and couldn’t find anything, until I started using the term “underground” in my searches. The term “conveniences” kept popping up in my searches, but it didn’t click with me what it meant because to me, “conveniences” means shops. It just goes to show how the meaning of words can change over time. Because I believed there was an underground shopping area, it was on my next to-do list to uncover this shop that did not exist once I finished looking for the Victorian toilets.
So next time you stroll down Cornwallis Street, take a moment to imagine the hidden world beneath your feet, where Victorian ladies once gathered in this underground sanctuary.
#HistoryMystery #UrbanExploration #LostBarrow #VictorianFashion #Barrow #PublicLavatories