George Major, known as the Pearly King of Peckham, was a beloved figure in London, famous for his dazzling suits adorned with sequins and mother-of-pearl buttons. He passed away in August 2024 at the age of 88. Major was a local celebrity, known for his charming personality and unique way of speaking, which combined “backspeak” and Cockney rhyming slang. He was dedicated to charity work, a tradition among the pearly kings and queens, who wear their distinctive outfits to raise money for good causes. Major’s funeral was a lively affair, with mourners singing pub songs as his casket was carried by a horse-drawn cart. His legacy continues through his family and the Cockney Museum he founded.
QUESTION: How do you think cultural traditions like those of the pearly kings and queens can impact a community’s identity and sense of belonging?
What a Pearly King taught me about Cockney rhyming slang and East London history
