James: You probably know all this, but I thought it might be of general interest.A collection of pictures, photos and rowing memorabilia was put together by Whitbreads Brewery for hanging in the Coach and Eight public house on Upper Richmond Road. When the Coach and Eight closed in 1979 and became The Fox & Hounds, Whitbreads handed them over to the Putney Society who, having no premises in which to display them, loaned them; half to London Rowing Club and half to Thames Rowing Club. At some point (I am not sure when) Thames Rowing Club decided that they could no longer house the pictures and they were given to the Wandsworth Museum. They remain in the Museum collection in the basement of what was the Museum at 38 West Hill (now a Nursery School). In 2014 London Rowing Club decided to give their pictures to the Museum. However, as the Museum was by then under threat, the Putney Society felt that the pictures should be seen by the public and they are now on loan to local Pubs and Restaurants. They can be seen at The Putney Pantry, Boma Bridge, Cafe del Ray and The Coat & Badge.I have a list of the original Whitbread Collection , although several items are missing, unfortunately including a Doggett's Coat with Badge.
Caroline Whitehead ● 2777d