A new book exploring the social history of the London bus – one of the most famous icons in the world – is now available from the London Transport Museum shop.
The book, Omnibus, a social history of the London bus is packed with photographs and illustrations and looks at the impact the bus has had on Londoners’ lives over the last two centuries.
The colourful publication traces the rise of the omnibus from its humble origins as a horse bus through its journey over the course of 200 years to become a world famous and much loved symbol of London.
Its 14 chapters cover service at the Front during the First World War, technological innovation and the representation of the bus in popular culture, through to ‘Fares Fair’ and privatisation.
The broad range of topics covered means that the book will appeal to people interested in history, design and London’s culture as well as transport enthusiasts.
Sam Mullins, Director of London Transport Museum and one of the authors of the book said, “Since the mid-nineteenth century the bus has been the unsung hero of transport in London.
“Originally a horse drawn box on wheels with an open top deck exposed to the weather in all seasons, it has now become the sleek, highly-efficient form of mass transit that we know and love.
“The bus holds a special place in most people’s hearts for so many reasons – magnificent views of London’s architecture and sights; teenage romances blossoming on the top deck and the excitement and joy of discovering a new part of London.”
Copies of Omnibus, a social history of the London bus are £25.00 each and are available from London Transport Museum’s Covent Garden shop and online at www.ltmuseumshop.co.uk.
