Above: The old school buildings, now converted into apartments. They stand on the east side of Scandrett Street. The view was taken from the west side of the street while standing in the old churchyard.
Wapping was historically part of the Manor and Parish of Stepney. By the 17th century, it formed two autonomous Hamlets. These Hamlets later became independent parishes, with Wapping-Stepney becoming known as St George in the East (in 1729) and Wapping-Whitechapel known as St John of Wapping (in 1694). The latter occupied a very narrow strip along nearly all of Wapping’s riverside.
The parish church of St John was badly damaged by a bomb during World War II. Only the elegant tower was restored. Beside the old church was a school, founded about 1695. The school was rebuilt in 1756. In recent times, the school fell into disrepair and has been redeveloped into two apartments. The old frontage has been fully restored, along with the two figures of school-children.
The converted building stands in Scandrett Street. On the west side of the street is now a small park using the original churchyard of St John.
-ENDS-
Know Your London 