This year, the keynote speech for the Worshipful Company of Plumber’s lecture, taking place on 4 October, will be delivered by the current master of the Company Dr Peter Rumley FSA.
Peter is an art historian, archaeologist, curator, author and historic buildings conservationist. He was also the National Trust’s consultant archaeologist during the conservation of Ightham Mote, Sissinghurst Castle and Garden, Kent.
In addition to representing the Worshipful Company, Peter continues to advise on historic castles and country houses. Now a consultant to The Royal Household, he is currently engaged in an historic building and architectural history of Buckingham Palace.
Peter’s chosen subject for the 2021 lecture looks at the early role of The Royal Plumbers and the part they had to play in some of the first water engineering projects undertaken in the City of London.
He will take a closer look at who the innovative Royal Serjeant Plumbers were and how they were organised in the Royal Household and Office of Works.
While little is known about their contribution to early hydraulic engineering for the delivery of water to religious houses, castles, palaces, pleasure gardens and the citizens of London, these early pioneers played a major part in improving living basic conditions for many, thanks to their innovative approach.
The event will start at 5pm, with the lecture beginning at 6pm. This will be followed by reception drinks at 7pm and dinner at 7.30pm. The evening will end at approximately 9.30pm.