@article{901,
  author = {S. Gouglas},
  title = {Produce and Protection: Covent Garden Market, the Socioeconomic Elite, and the Downtown Core in London, Ontario, 1843\textendash1915},
  abstract = {<p>This article discusses the economic and social impacts of the development of the Covent Garden Market (the Market) in London, Ontario. The right was granted to develop the Market in 1835 (Gouglas, 1996). The article examines the historic role of the Market as a centerpiece of economic activity. The article\’s thesis investigates whether or not the economic and social patterns that resulted from the development privileged a minority of the city\’s merchants (Gouglas, 1996). Historically, the goal of the Market was to connect urban and rural life and create a safe, fair trading centre. The downtown core location of the Market was selected to create a location advantage to facilitate trade. Overtime, economic data showed that merchants in the Market survived longer, were of higher values, and had easier access to credit suggesting they were more economically successful than other businesses (Gouglas, 1996). Further economic advantages are discussed including increased pedestrian traffic, the creation of a \“social hub\” which improved sales, financial institutions including banks located nearby to increase profits by serving farmers (Gouglas, 1996). While properties specifically located on \“Market Square\” performed best, other stores that were nearby or visible from the Market also enjoyed success as well (Gouglas, 1996). The social benefits were widespread from people being able to vote at the Market, converse with others about schooling or activities for their children, learn information from other farmers or even enjoy a concert or performance on a weekend evening (Gouglas, 1996). Visiting the Market also offered a way to relax and decrease stress levels associated with farming life (Gouglas, 1996). Overall, the Market offered a safe, reliable economic option for vendors, which allowed the Market to thrive more than other places of trade (Gouglas, 1996).</p>
},
  year = {1996},
  journal = {Urban History Review},
  volume = {25},
  chapter = {3-18},
}