Who’s Bumper Harris?
1st Aug 2007 @ 2.01pmWhilst traveling to a meeting on the underground recently I came across a wonderful example of storytelling…
For some weeks now, a set of escalators at Waterloo underground station have undergone a full refurbishment which, for many commuters, will have proven a tad troublesome. An A-Frame sign with a grammatically incorrect notice written in marker would usually suffice, but to my joy (and I must admit surprise) a story had been thoughtfully crafted. The message, which was displayed across eight wall hanging advertising boards, not only informed passengers about the ongoing repairs but featured snippets of information, both past and present. This was a breath of fresh (albeit London Underground) air.
One such snippet detailed the story of a one-legged character by the name of Bumper Harris. Employed for the opening day of the escalators at Earls Court, he constantly traveled the escalators in an effort that demonstrated, to the many on-looking sceptics, the safety and overall stability of the new contraption. Of course, his bravery paid off and modern day commuters riding the moving stairs are none the wiser to his efforts.
What amazes me about this story is that Mr Harris has been the talk of our office ever since we learned of him, he’s been included in this blog - I’ve even found myself ‘Googling’ him! All of which just goes to show the true power of stories.
posted by Ryan Dixon
filed under Misc, Stories
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Hi Ryan - invisible lives made visible through stories. Bumper Harris’s exploits reminds me of a man in a sandwich board near the Royal Academy this last february time - it simply read - No one notices me or what i do until i stop doing it - then everyone notices. I think it was in support of the NHS support staff.
A real gem.
Hi
Bumper Harris was my great grand father, am not sure of the story that he was paid to ride up and down the escalator all day i believe it was a matter of “if a man with one leg can do it, anyone can”. I believe there is a small exhibit at the london transport museum showing his photo and the walking stick made from the tree and the deer antlers found 60 feet underground. Its nice to hear of peoples interest.
Bumper Harris was also my Great (not sure if it is Great Great) Grandfather (Sally we must be related some how!). I was in London recently as saw the poster!
Hi Clare, it’s Laura!
Bumper Harris was your great great grandfather, my great grandfather.
Sally do tell us who your parents and grandparents are so we can work out the connection.
Bumper Harris was my great great grandfather, my mums Laura and Clare is my 2nd cousin. cool i may have a bigger family than we thought
My mother always said that we were related to bumper harris, her name was keen, we do have a harris on her side so maybe