The Museum charts amongst many stories the history of trade
between Chinaand London in the Warehouse of the World gallery.
This toy was manufactured by the German toy maker Johann Meier
and wasimported into London through the docks and sold for one
penny. Our recordsshow that this toy was purchased from a street
trader operating in the StPaul's area of London on 10th January
1906.
Trade between Britain and China began in the 17th century and
Chinesesailors had reached London on board East India Company ships
by 1782.
This initial small group lived around Pennyfields and Limehouse
Causeway anarea that developed into London's original 'Chinatown'
prior to a move to Sohoafter the Second World War.
Recent data records show over 78,000 Chinese people now live in
Londonand Chinese New Year celebrations have become a popular part
of London'scultural and social calendar.
