Pearly queen

The original Pearly King. Born in the St Pancras Workhouse (now, 2015, the St Pancras Hospital, immediately north of St Pancras Gardens). His mother was in and out of the workhouse, sometimes giving an address and sometimes not. His father was a musician but may have left, or died, since Henry was brought up in an orphanage - where he learnt to sew. For his whole working life, from about the age of 15, he was employed by the local council as a road-sweeper - see the statue Street Orderly Boy…

In the midst of life I woke to find myself living in an old house beside Brick Lane in the East End of London

Taken at the annual Harvest Festival

A fantastic display of old photos from London's East End

It is a tradition which dates back to 1875 and has been kept alive by 30 London families who were out in force for their annual Harvest Festival in central London today.

Messy Nessy Chic uncovers the Pearly Kings and Queens, an English style subculture, with their colorful feathered hats and hand-sewn pearl button suits.

Pearly Kings & Queens - the next generation! Photographed by Gillian Horsup.

"My Fair Lady" inspiration - Pearly Queen

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