A is for that wonderful actor Alan Arkin, who turns 80 today. It is also for Amazon Street, Amen Corner, Askew Road, and Artichoke Hill, the name of which derives from an inn sign.
Artichokes were introduced to England in the 16th century, during the reign of Henry VIII, and as much as a century later they were still rare enough to command a high price.
The artichoke was adopted as a sign because of its comparative rarity and unusual shape, which lent itself well to artistic representation; it became a symbol for gardeners and was a common one for inns in garden areas.
There is an Artichoke pub in Devon dating from the 13th century; it was purportedly used as a headquarters for the Crusaders who were thought to have brought an artichoke back with them.
[Other actors born on this day are James Caan and Leonard Nimoy.]
About Me (and my Obsession)
My obsession with London street names began in the early 90s when I worked in the Smithfield area and happened upon Bleeding Heart Yard. In my wanderings around London, kept adding to my store of weird and wonderful street names. Eventually it was time to share – hence my blog. I hope you enjoy these names as much as I do.
– Elizabeth
Recent Posts
- Poultry and Hen and Chickens Court – names for National Poultry Day
- Greenberry Street and Red Lion Square: street names for St Patrick’s Day and Red Nose Day
- Bleeding Heart Yard: revisiting (and debunking) old favourites
- Colours and music in London street names
- Pardons (or not) and justice in street names
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