An award-winning historian will explore Lambeth’s First World War reputation as being a ‘centre of vice’ tonight.
Professor Jerry White will be at Durning Library to discuss the rise in the number of prostitutes in the area and their military clients between 1914 and 1918.
Professor White has been studying and writing prolifically about London since the late 1970s.
In 1997 he began writing a trilogy on the history of modern London from 1700 to 2000 and recently released, Zeppelin Nights: London in the First World.
“It was a difficult time, particularly for some of the colonial troops largely because some of the women were praying on them in regards to money,” explained Professor White.
“My book deals with prostitution and anxiety about sex.
“There were great anxieties about prostitution undermining the morale, and indeed health of the troops.”
The talk takes place tonight and starts at 6.45 – 8.30pm.
There is no admission charge but a £2 donation is invited towards costs.
Image courtesy of Google Maps, with thanks
