Paul Postle : The Genealogist and waves of immigration

It was apparent from walking around that you soon became aware of the different nationalities who have lived down Brick lane from the names above the shops. Many buildings were dated, either by plaques on their facades or by their architectural styles of their homes, businesses or cultural centres. Many of these buildings had proprietor's names written on the shop fronts. Churches and schools had names of prominent citizens or local contributors. Whilst many buildings remain visually unaltered from the first floor up, the ground floor usually provided a clue to the present occupiers cultural background. By looking at The National Archives or the Genealogist it would be possible to trace how communities have changed over the decades from Census records alone. The usage of the buildings have also changed, again helping identify the different community. In the Bangladeshi section of Brick Lane its evident that half a dozen pubs have closed down over the years. Because of a reduced national demand for beer and from its competition The Truman Brewery became a series of smaller business mainly markets, bars and an art & business centre. Again the details remain in the architectural details, but the ground floors look totally different. This started me thinking ....