Longton is one of the Six towns that make up the city of Stoke on Trent in the North of England. The city is know as 'The Potteries' as it was the home of the vast majority of pottery production in England including names such as Wedgewood, Doulton, Spode, Aynsley etc. The area around this street has been undeveloped since being built in Dickens' time but is now derelict awaiting a City Council refurbishment programme. No modern picture can portray the dirt, the heat and the endless drudgery the pottery workers endured to produce their beautiful products - see this brilliant website for more info.