Follow the Tale of Old Tom the Leadenhall Market Goose
Legendary City gander Old Tom will have his moment to shine once again in Leadenhall Market, as the Victorian architectural gem reveals a trail of five newly commissioned ‘stained glass windows’ featuring the majestic bird’s adventures on display in the Market’s windows.
The Legend of Old Tom (1797-1835)
During the 19th century, ‘Old Tom’ was a celebrated character in Leadenhall. He was a gander from Ostend who came to England by chance, due to his fascination with one of the female members of his flock. It is recorded that over two consecutive days 34,000 geese were slaughtered in the Market – but Old Tom managed to escape execution. He became a great favourite in the market, even being fed at the local inns. After his death in 1835 at the age of 38, he lay in state in the market and was buried on site. Today, visitors can toast the famous goose at Old Tom’s Bar, found beneath The Lamb Tavern in Leadenhall Market.
Working in partnership with The City of London Corporation, Old Tom’s Tale has been funded by EC BID – a business improvement district working to promote and enhance a unique part of the City of London known as the Eastern City.
