Thieving Lane, Westminster, from a drawing by JT Smith, 1808 - stock illustration

Thieving Lane, Westminster, from a drawing by JT Smith in 1808. Thieving Lane, in the shadow of Westminster Abbey, was so named because it was the road on which thieves were taken to the Gatehouse Prison as well as for the occupation enjoyed by many of the local population in the 18th century. From “Old & New London” by Walter Thornbury and Edward Walford, published in parts by Cassell & Co, London from 1873-1888. These illustrations are from parts 30-35 inclusive.