62 Fleet Street

Watercolour sketch of the exterior of 62 Fleet Street, the bookshop of Richard Carlile (1790-1843), radical publisher, reformist and writer. Carlile set up as a publisher and bookseller in 1819 at 55 Fleet Street until 1822 when confisaction of the stock forced closure. In 1826 the shop at No.62 was opened 'with the aim of promulgating radical texts at affordable prices, a financial folly which lasted only two years'....'The significance of Carlile's achievement lies in his contribution to the cause of free speech and a free press. While his own works are unlikely to receive much attention now, his publishing career and his championship of the oppressed, of no advantage to himself or his family, stand as testimony to the depth of commitment to be found in the artisan class of the early nineteenth century.' Philip W. Martin, DNB. The drawing shows the lively shop front with books lining the windows, three large theatrical figures and many signs: 'Props of the Church', Temporal Broker', 'Spiritual Brokers', 'Battle of the Church rates', etc. The drawing is attached to card with inscription: 'At No. 62 in 1828 Richard Carlile. Here he opened his lecturing, conversation and discussion establishment and Sunday school, and here he preached 'the only true Gospel of Jesus Christ extant' J.C.Noble - may be author but not artist.