Imagine standing where history and commerce intertwine. This is Cockspur Street. It is a short street with a surprisingly rich past.
Cockspur Street links Charing Cross to Pall Mall. It has existed since at least the 16th century. Imagine it then. It was a narrow passage bustling with activity.
The name “Cockspur Street” sounds unusual. It literally means “street of cock spurs.” Back in the early 18th century, cockfighting was popular here. Spurs were attached to the legs of the birds.
Over time, Cockspur Street changed significantly. In 1746, maps show narrow passages connected to it. Later, these were abolished and the street was widened. Regent Street’s construction impacted Cockspur Street too. Pall Mall extended eastward creating a one-way traffic flow.
Let’s focus on one building. Number 1 Cockspur Street was Oceanic House. It served as the London office for the White Star Line. This company operated famous liners including the Titanic. “Oceanic House” is inscribed twice on the building. It’s now part of Canada House.
After the Titanic’s sinking, Oceanic House became a focal point. People gathered seeking news. A photograph captured a newsboy selling papers. The headline read “Titanic Disaster Great Loss of Life.” The photo showed onlookers outside Oceanic House.
Oceanic House itself is architecturally impressive. Built between 1903 and 1906, it has a steel-frame clad in Portland stone. A neo-classical portico graces the facade. Ionic columns support an entablature. “Oceanic House” is marked in gold lettering.
For King George V’s coronation in 1911, Oceanic House was heavily decorated. It was outlined with 45000 electric lights. A huge star containing 2000 lamps adorned the building. A model of the Olympic liner was also illuminated.
Oceanic House later housed a Barclays Bank branch. In the 1970s, it was home to the South African Embassy. Later still, an American diner called the Texas Embassy occupied the space.
In 2015, Oceanic House was converted into luxury apartments. The refurbishment aimed to capture the spirit of transatlantic ocean liners. Marketing materials featured a model of the Titanic.
Not all buildings on Cockspur Street have survived. Numbers 6 to 13 are gone. They made way for new street layouts. Number 14-16 was once the Hamburg-Amerika House. It was put up for sale in 1917.
Cockspur Street has seen its share of dramatic events. In 2007, a car containing explosives was found here. It was removed and investigated.
The “Irish Giant” Charles Byrne died in Cockspur Street in 1783. He was over 7 feet 7 inches tall. He died at his lodgings. His skeleton is preserved in the Hunterian Museum.
Today, Cockspur Street is a blend of old and new. Its buildings reflect different eras. Its history is full of maritime connections and notable events. As you walk along it, remember its stories. Think of the Titanic, the giants, and the bustling crowds. Cockspur Street is more than just a street. It is a piece of London’s history.