Pearly King and Queen, London 1979

The tradition of the Pearly Kings and Queens is one of London’s most distinctive and colourful folk customs. It dates back to the 19th century and is rooted in the city’s working-class culture. The story begins with Henry Croft, an orphan street sweeper from Somers Town in the 1870s, who began decorating his suit with mother-of-pearl buttons to draw attention while collecting money for charity. Inspired by the costermongers—London’s street traders—who already used pearl buttons as decoration, Croft’s elaborate outfits quickly became a symbol of charitable effort.

As the idea caught on, entire families of costermongers adopted the tradition, forming organisations known as Pearly Kings and Queens, each representing different boroughs of London. Over time, these groups became synonymous with community spirit, charity work, and Cockney pride. Their dazzling suits, meticulously hand-sewn with intricate patterns of pearl buttons, remain their trademark.

Today, Pearly Kings and Queens still participate in charitable events, parades, and London festivals, proudly maintaining this vibrant and unique aspect of London’s cultural heritage.