Pictured here in 1874, the Black Boy Inn was demolished later that year. The pub gave the area its popular (but not official) name of Blackboy Hill. A few years ago the nearby Elephant and Castle public house had its name changed to the Blackboy Inn. The house behind and to the left is the Coach & Horses in Highland Square.

The Blackboy Tavern wasn’t always called that. Years before, it was the Blackamoor’s Head. Blackamoor – a name popularised at the time of the crusades when it was used to describe North African Muslims. Many inns were given this name, together with an illustrated sign – necessary because, at the time, the majority could not read or write.

Image: Photographer unknown

Taken around 10 years ago from the same spot by Nick Howes, the modern photograph shows that only the cream-coloured building (on the right-hand side) can be seen. The roof of the church behind it can also just be seen in the 1874 version.

Image: Nick Howes (around 2013)