In the Jordaan area beyond them, but still within the new fortifications along the Singelgracht, the city cut costs by retaining the old pattern of land ownership where possible, and just widening the ditches and paths into canals and streets.

This area became one where all the craftsmen of the city could practice their trades, including weavers and dyers, leather workers, tanners and potters.

In 1854 the Vereeniging ten Behoeve der Arbeidersklasse (Working Class Association) began to purchase plots on Goudsbloemgracht.

[3] The space occupied by the canal and quays allowed for a broad street, named the Willemsstraat after King William I.

[4] The new Willemsstraat was the pride of the association, although it took time for the residents to give up habits like keeping livestock in their back yards.