Long before the construction of the Heygate Estate, there was a small but thriving Jewish community in that area, which added to the local colour. A handful of Jewish food shops were dotted around, including a kosher butcher in the high street, and Pinkus Delicatessen selling salt beef, bagels, and pickled cucumbers in Deacon Street. Jewish tailors also flourished around the Elephant & Castle and in the Old Kent Road.
The South London Jewish School stood on the corner of Heygate Street and Vowler Street, and the New Borough Synagogue was next door. It was so called because the congregation originally met nearby at the Borough and wished to retain the old name.
- Heygate Street. The Prince Albert Pub to the left out of picture.