This pass for tram transport is written out to Inspector John Spratling of J Division (Bethnal Green) of the Metropolitan Police force.
Inspector Spratling investigated the murder of Mary Ann 'Polly' Nichols, killed on 31 August 1888 and believed to be the first attack of 'Jack the Ripper'.
The pass was found by David Smith when he was a young boy in a piece of furniture purchased by his family in the East End and kept by him.
David only realised who the pass belonged to after watching a Jack the Ripper movie starring Michael Caine in 1888.
It was very unusual for a police officer to be given free tram transport and remains something of a mystery.
Tram pass for Inspector John Spratling
Contributed by Oliver Rogers
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c.1888
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