John Gulliver: 50 years of Camden Market – did you celebrate?

One of UK's biggest tourist attractions grew from 16 stalls

Tuesday, 2nd April — By John Gulliver

camdenmarket

The 1974 sign at Camden Market



THE history of Camden Market can be traced back to the early 70s, and more specifically, to 50 years ago this week.

The books show there were initially 16 traders, selling antiques, jewellery and arts and craft.

Now Camden Market is a home to hundreds of small businesses bringing to the area the multicultural diversity that we’ve all come to love.

A little surprising then that no celebrations appear to be taking place this weekend to mark this very historic milestone.

I only realised about it thanks to Ray Atkins, who is taking part in a history project at Castlehaven Community Centre and noticed the 1974 sign outside, below. A sign perhaps that the market’s owners keep more of an eye on its future than its past.

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