Paternoster Row

Paternoster Row’s character was once entirely ecclesiastical due to being situated north of the St. Paul’s Cathedral. This famous alley, known as "the Row," was popular among stationers and text-writers whom dealt and sold religious and educational books. Although before the Great Fire of London in 1666 the Row was favored among “quality” artisans - such as silkmen and lacemen - that tailored to the fashion of the gentry class. After the Great Fire most of those trades were moved to Bedford Street, King Street, and Henrietta Street located in Covent Garden. The booksellers took control of the alley, but met competition with women who sold women’s fashion headdresses. From 1678 and onwards (as of 1895) The Row is occupied with book-auctions that take place at different taverns and at different times throughout the day.