Club Life of London, Vol. 2 (of 2): With Anecdotes of the Clubs, Coffee-Houses and Taverns of the Metropolis During the 17th, 18th, and 19th Centuries

"Club Life of London, Vol. 2 (of 2)" by John Timbs is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work delves into the social landscape of London, focusing on the many coffee-houses, taverns, and clubs that thrived during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The book not only highlights the evolution of these establishments but also shares anecdotes that define the culture and social dynamic of the era. The opening portion introduces readers to the early history of coffee-houses in England, particularly detailing Pasqua Rosee's establishment, often cited as the first coffee-house in London. Timbs discusses the initial skepticism around coffee drinking, dispelling myths about its health effects while celebrating the establishment of such coffee-houses as crucial meeting places for various social classes. As the narrative unfolds, it presents significant coffee-houses like Garraway's, which became central to mercantile transactions, and Jonathan's, renowned as a hub for stock-jobbers amidst the South Sea Bubble frenzy. Through anecdotes and historical notes, the text sets the stage for understanding how these venues shaped London’s social fabric.