The Pearly Movement

The Pearly Movement was originally founded about 1875 by a man called Henry Croft. He was, himself, an orphan. His original idea was simply to raise money for other orphans (the need was very great then). Eventually he was joined by other fundraisers, hence the development of the Pearly Movement.

The Pearly monarchy was set from the beginning, King and Queens, etc. The honours are passed down. They are a very flamboyant movement and wonderful to see. Their suits and dresses are covered in pearl buttons, each one is sewn on individually.

I can remember seeing them when they were raising funds. They were always very entertaining, and all their efforts were for charity. They were a sight once seen, never forgotten.

The Pearly Movement is essentially a London thing, it especially belongs to the East End of London. They are all true cockneys and very proud of their heritage. The designs on their clothes (created by the pearly buttons) are all individual. The clothes were usually handed down, if they were well looked after (and they usually were). After all, they took untold hours to create and they were all real pearl buttons.