Thursday 29 September 2011

Geo.Wilson & Sons - Boats for Hire

Once upon a time in Arcadia, especially towards the end of the 19th century, into the 20th and often on the last Thursday in September ladies and gentlemen would find time to take themselves off to the River Thames for a day amongst the dace, roach and perch.  Along the river there were many boathouses and yards at which to hire a traditional Thames punt some of which remain today. A particular favourite is 'Geo. Wilson & Sons' situated in the district known as Sunbury.  Very sadly old Mr. Wilson passed away in April of this year but his widow Mrs. Wilson and daughter and son-in-law are keeping the boatyard going and you are encouraged to patronise it and to keep the history of the River Thames and its angling alive.  In this respect you are given leave from visiting me at my stall at Spitalfields today and may ring Mrs. Wilson on telephone number 01932 782 067 to enquire about a punt.  Should you ignore this request and come to the stall I will ask you to buy me a cup of tea over which I will describe in great detail the huge bag of dace, roach and perch that I caught from Wilson's on Monday in the company of Mr. Luke Jennings.