Winchester Geese is how prostitutes were known in the middle ages when the Bishop of Winchester ran licensed houses of 'geese'. An area in Southwark became the burial ground for these women. Later a burial ground for those with cholera, smallpox and similar diseases. By Victorian times it was an overcrowded burial ground for paupers, finally closing in 1853. In recent years this shrine on the gate has appeared to remember all those who lie here.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Winchester Geese
Winchester Geese is how prostitutes were known in the middle ages when the Bishop of Winchester ran licensed houses of 'geese'. An area in Southwark became the burial ground for these women. Later a burial ground for those with cholera, smallpox and similar diseases. By Victorian times it was an overcrowded burial ground for paupers, finally closing in 1853. In recent years this shrine on the gate has appeared to remember all those who lie here.