The Exeter ‘Change’ in The Strand, London

The Exeter Exchange, also known as Exeter Change, was a building in London that housed a menagerie, or collection of exotic animals, during the 19th century. It was located on the Strand and operated from the late 1700s until the mid-1800s. The menagerie at Exeter Change was a popular attraction for Londoners, showcasing a variety of animals including lions, tigers, monkeys, birds, and other exotic creatures.

However, the conditions for the animals at Exeter Change were often poor, with small and cramped cages that did not provide proper care or space for the animals. This led to concerns about animal welfare, and eventually, public sentiment turned against the menagerie. Animal rights activists, including figures like William Wilberforce, campaigned for the closure of Exeter Change due to the inhumane treatment of the animals.

In 1826, the menagerie was finally closed down, and the building was later demolished. The closure of Exeter Change marked a turning point in public attitudes towards the treatment of animals and contributed to the growing movement for animal welfare and rights. The change was on the current site of The Strand Palace Hotel.

British Empire Exhibition 1924 -1925 Postcards

Four new monochrome views from the British Empire Exhibition in Wembley. All postcards, unused. The last one, HRH Prince of Wales representation in ‘Butter’ is fascinating. I assume the enclosure was temperature controlled! The following article states ‘in 1924, the Canadians used a large refrigerated case in their Pavilion to display a life-sized sculpture in butter’. Link produced by Brent Council, provides information on the exhibition and other ‘Butter’ sculptures.

I wonder if HRH sat for the artist?

Flip-Flap at Exhibition

Earlier in the blog, I mentioned the view from ‘Flip-Flap’ at the Japan-British Exhibition held in London during 1910. This card shows ‘Flip-Flap’ towering over the main pavilion on the site. A cross between the Ferris Wheel and Tower, my guess is that it ‘flipped and flapped’ from side to side. I doubt though that it was very fast!

Interesting to compare with the earlier card, reproduced below. The chimneys are missing and a garden or plazza has apeared in the view. Possibly, the pavilion in rear centre was still being constructed in the colour photograph, dating it to 1910 or earlier