Standing alone in the heart of Westminster, surrounded by ivy, a fireplace can be seen on the street. This is a relic from one of many houses that once lined this end of Vincent Street, but were destroyed during World War II.
The building that now stands next to this site is Dean Abbott House, which is a sheltered accommodation and retirement housing complex, with security gates and fencing that stop you from seeing more of the relics of the area.
However, during my visit to the fireplace, I got talking to tone of the residents, Tom, who was returning from the shops. He explained about the fireplace and the houses that had once stood here, before mentioning that there was more to see, if I was interested.
A moment later Tom led me through the security gate and showed me the other alcoves, still in situ. Although not as impressive as the fireplace, it was still interesting to see these remnants from the past.
As we moved further into the parking area, for Dean Abbott House, I spotted a small door embedded in the wall. Tom told me that behind this wall is the bathroom to the attached house, but the owners are unclear as to where this door (not original) leads.
After thanking Tom for his time I made my way out of the parking area, through the gate and continued my walk towards Pimlico.
Vincent Street saw, in one single attack, 21 properties hit so badly that they were damaged beyond repair. From the 7th of October 1940 to the 6th of June 1941, 64 incendiary explosives were dropped on the area of Vincent Square Ward.
From June 1944 through to 1945 the area was again targeted, but this time by V-1 and V-2 vengeance weapons.
It is unclear if the damage to the Vincent Street properties was from the carpet bombing or from a vengeance weapon, later in the war.
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