Luton,Bds Local knowledge

[krystalRose59]

I am hoping someone..amongst their travels about town might spot where 42-44 George St might have exsisted..When I "google earth" the address it locates a spot in a sidewalk,my guess, would be an accessway for Marks and Spencer.In late 1700's-early 1800's there was an accessway to be cut through 32(now50) Wellington Street(address of a bleach house) called "Peel Street".Behind the bleach house was a warehouse 6-8 cottages and a garden.....Do any of these properties still exsist..I know the "Cross Keys Inn" that stood on 42-44 George Street was torn down in 1905... Was anything built on it....Was the garden extended?? Was it just all flattened out? Any light you can shed on my curiousity.I sure would appreciate it....Thank-you for your tyme

[shazadoobie]

Hi KrystalRose

I think you are correct that Marks & Spencer occupy 42-44 George Street.  From what I can recall Peel Street has a few small shops in a terrace and car parking space.  Next time I am in the town centre I will have a look for you.

Sharon

[shazadoobie]

I found this photo of Peel Street online, it was taken in the early 1960's I think. I thought it might be of interest to you KrystalRose. I can't believe I remembered you were asking about it all that time ago!
Sharon

[johnP-bedford]

In both 1911 and 1917 Luton Directories Marks and Spencers occupied 40 George Street. At no 42 was J J Lindsell and at no 44 was Button Bros. Then it crossed Bond Street before we got to no 46/48 Hucklesby & Co.

I found a photo of 42 George Street, where J J Lindsell was a straw plait warehouse. Another such warehouse in Biscot road also says it is a Bleach Works. Found another photo of no 44, showing A Hucklesberry & Co's Straw Hat & Plait warehouse.

John