DAVID URQUHART

BRITISH, 1805-1877

A politician and First Secretary at the British Embassy in Istanbul, David Urquhart was also an accomplished traveller and author who wrote extensively on his journeys. Some of his works that proved particularly popular were those discussing Turkish baths and their potential health benefits. As a result, Urquhart sought to introduce similar baths to Britain, and by the time the Jermyn Street Hammam baths were opened on 26 July 1862, there were already roughly 30-35 baths in London. Urquhart believed that their health benefits would, “wage war against drunkenness, immorality and filth in every shape.” Although there may have been Turkish baths in London before, Urquhart is widely regarded as the pioneer behind their widespread introduction.