Remembering Henry Croft: the Original Pearly King

We joined the Pearlies of Kings Cross and St Pancras to dedicate a plaque to Henry Croft, who lived at 15 Charles Road (now Phoenix Street) in London.

The Pearlies have been raising money for charities for over 100 years, and support two children's charities: Great Ormond Street Hospital and Rippledown Environmental Education Centre. We were delighted to work with the Pearlies and the Heritage Foundation to dedicate a plaque to Henry Croft, who spent his life raising money to support the poor.
 
Who was Henry Croft?

Henry Croft was born 24 May 1861 in the St Pancras workhouse in Somers Town, and spent his childhood in the St Pancras orphanage. In 1876 he became a road sweeper and rat catcher for St Pancras Borough Council, He was influenced by the Costers (London fruit and vegetable sellers) who dressed in mother-of-pearl buttons and believed in helping those less well off, even if you had little yourself.

His first suit and top hat was said to have over 60,000 pearl buttons sewed in patterns including slogans like "all for charity" and "pity the poor." He became famous for his pearly suit, using it to stand out and raise money for charities. He was awarded medals and inspired thousands of people to give or raise money. For over 40 years he collected for charities and raised more than £4000 (£220,000 in today's money.)

Henry Croft died on 1 January 1930, and 400 Pearly Kings and Queens came to his burial in St Pancras Cemetery. His coffin was carried in a procession from his home in Charles Street (now Phoenix Road), and Henry’s medals and famous pearly hat was placed on top. Over 10,000 people came to the procession, which can be watched online here.

The plaque reads: Henry Croft, The Original Pearly King 1861-1930. Founder of the Pearly Kings and Queens Tradition, Charitable Fundraiser, Roadsweeper, Orphan and Father. Lived here at 15 Charles Street (now Phoenix Road.)

For more information about the Original Pearlies of Kings Cross and St Pancras visit their website.