Poster

In the 19th century technical developments in the printing industry brought new typefaces which advertisers seized upon to create bold and eye-catching notices. Wood-block engraved illustrations were often used if resources allowed.

Until the expansion of the railway system in the second half of the 19th century, small sailing ships like the Whitstable hoy, The Thomas and Stephen, transported goods and passengers between London and other British and continental ports. Ships were loaded and unloaded at the hundreds of small wharves and quays lining both banks of the Thames between the City of London and the Isle of Dogs (on the north side) and Bermondsey and Greenwich (on the south side). A hoy was a small ship used for carrying passengers and goods, especially for short distances.

This notice advertises the weekly service of The Thomas and Stephen to Whitstable in Kent. It sailed from Botolph Wharf which was on the north side of the Thames between London Bridge and the Tower of London. On the reverse is a handwritten bill or receipt for goods and transport dated 3 July 1826.