Records of old London vanishing and vanished

Published in 1880 by J.S. Virtue, Records of Old London Vanishing and Vanished serves as a historical document of the rapid transformation of the Victorian urban landscape. During this era, London underwent significant architectural upheaval due to industrial expansion, infrastructure projects, and slum clearances. William G. Habershon, an architect by profession, compiled these sketches and observations to document buildings and historical landmarks that were being demolished or irrevocably altered by the relentless march of modern progress.

The book is notable for its illustrative focus, featuring lithographs that capture the fading character of local architecture that might otherwise have been forgotten. Habershon’s work reflects the contemporary antiquarian interest in preservation, driven by the Victorian desire to capture the 'soul' of the city before it was replaced by standardized brick and steel. The volume is considered a valuable resource for urban historians and architectural enthusiasts, prized primarily for its role as a visual register of London’s architectural heritage during a pivotal period of transition.