Meet the Pearly Kings and Queens of Britain

Summary

Diane Gould, the Pearly Queen of St. Pancras, reflects on her family's deep connection to the Pearly Kings and Queens tradition, which dates back to Victorian London. Originating with a charitable orphan, Henry Croft, the tradition involves adorning suits with pearl buttons to raise funds for local causes. Diane shares memories of her family's Pearly legacy, from her great-grandfather to her children and grandchildren. She highlights the symbolism of her hand-sewn suit and the Pearly motto, 'one never knows,' emphasizing community, love, and resilience through life's ups and downs.

Takeaways

• 👑 Diane Gould is the Pearly Queen of St. Pancras, part of the Pearly Royals, a tradition rooted in charity work.
• 👗 Pearly Royals trace back to Victorian London and were founded by Henry Croft, an orphan and rat catcher who used pearl buttons to raise money for charity.
• 🧥 The tradition involves elaborate costumes covered in pearl buttons, passed down through generations within families, with titles like Pearly King and Queen.
• 🧳 Diane's family has a long legacy in this tradition, with her great-grandfather George Dole being the first Pearly King of St. Pancras.
• 📜 Diane's father and grandfather also held Pearly titles, and now her sons and grandchildren continue the tradition.
• 💂‍♂️ The Pearly Royals are often invited to royal events, and Diane recalls meeting Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother.
• 🎖 Diane's family honors their personal history through their Pearly suits, incorporating symbols like ships (for her father’s Merchant Navy service) and Great Ormond Street (a charity).
• 👒 Pearly hats and costumes are constantly updated, with Diane still sewing on new buttons and symbols after 40 years.
• 💓 The Pearly tradition represents love, connection, and community, which Diane feels deeply when people approach her on the streets.
• 🤝 The Pearly motto is 'one never knows,' symbolizing the importance of friendships, family, and support during life's ups and downs.

Q & A

Who is Diane Gould?

Diane Gould is the Pearly Queen of St. Pancras, part of the Pearly Royals. Her role involves raising funds for charities, continuing the tradition of her ancestors.

What is the origin of the Pearly Royals?

The Pearly Royals date back to Victorian times and originated among London's fruit and vegetable sellers, known as 'costers.' The tradition was started by Henry Croft, an orphan and rat catcher, who sewed pearl buttons onto an old suit to raise money for his orphanage.

Who was Henry Croft?

Henry Croft was a local orphan and rat catcher who began the Pearly tradition. He found a crate of 60,000 pearl buttons and sewed them onto his suit, which he used to raise money for his orphanage.

How are Pearly titles passed down?

Pearly titles are handed down through families. Diane Gould's great-grandfather was George Dole, the first Pearly King of St. Pancras, and the tradition has continued through the generations.

What kind of symbols are found on Pearly suits, and why?

Pearly suits are adorned with various symbols that have personal or cultural significance. Diane Gould's suit has a ship, representing her father's service in the Merchant Navy, and symbols of Great Ormond Street, which represents the charity she supports.

What role do the Pearly Royals play in modern times?

The Pearly Royals continue to raise funds for charities and participate in royal events, such as jubilees and coronations, helping to support community and charitable efforts.

What is the Pearly motto, and what does it mean?

The Pearly motto is 'one never knows,' which reflects the unpredictability of life and emphasizes the importance of being prepared for anything.

How does Diane Gould feel about the Pearly tradition?

Diane Gould feels a deep emotional connection to the Pearly tradition. She views it as a symbol of love, connection, and community, and finds it meaningful to interact with people while representing the Pearly Royals.

What kind of events do the Pearly Royals attend?

The Pearly Royals attend various charitable events, royal celebrations, and community gatherings. They are often seen at parties, fundraisers, and events that involve socializing and celebrating community spirit.

How does Diane Gould describe her interactions with people during her royal visits?

Diane Gould describes her interactions as deeply meaningful. She values the opportunity to hold someone's hand, make a connection, and share love with others, even with those she doesn't know personally.