London Luminaries: Chapel, charity, controversy & loss

A family marked by faith, tragedy and quiet controversy at the heart of Victorian London.

This London Luminaries talk uncovers the compelling story of the Tait family and their deep connections to Fulham Palace. From personal loss in Carlisle to life at the centre of the Church of England, the lecture explores how tragedy and belief shaped Archibald Campbell Tait’s path to becoming Bishop of London and influenced the changes he later made to the Palace.

The talk also brings Catharine Tait into focus, revealing the impact of her determined charitable work. In the aftermath of a devastating cholera epidemic, she helped establish the Ladies Diocesan Association and an orphanage, responding to urgent social need with compassion and practical action.

Finally, the lecture turns to Lucy Tait, daughter of Archibald and Catharine, and her close relationship with Mary Benson, wife of the Archbishop of Canterbury. This part of the talk offers a thoughtful glimpse into private lives and relationships that sat alongside public duty, adding a more personal and human dimension to Victorian religious life.

About the speaker

Alexis Haslam • community archaeologist at Fulham Palace

Alexis Haslam, joined Fulham Palace Trust in May 2017. He holds a BA in History and is a Member of the Institute for Archaeologists. He began working in archaeology upon graduating in 2000, working his way up from a field technician to a project officer. He has directed and published numerous archaeological excavations including his most recent work ‘Tales from the Vaults and other Newington Horror Stories’. After 16 years he left Pre-Construct Archaeology to join Fulham Palace Trust and is currently working on writing up the Palace’s long and complex history for a monograph due to be published in 2026.

Event details:

• This event is part of the online London Luminaries talk series.
• This is a free online lecture. Suggested donation of £5.00.

About the London Luminaries

The London Luminaries is a group of historic organisations who collaboratively work together to share knowledge and ideas about heritage.

London was the epicentre of commerce and wealth, thanks to the River Thames which attracted royalty, aristocrats, artists, writers and wealthy property owners. A legacy of these luminaries is an area exceptionally rich in heritage buildings, gardens and landscapes. Acknowledged experts will offer insights in relation to this theme and one of our 15 historic property partners: Kew Palace, Garrick’s Temple, Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery, Ham House and Garden, Boston Manor, Orleans House, Pope’s Grotto, Chiswick House, Marble Hill, Hogarth’s House, Strawberry Hill, Turner’s House, Gunnersbury Park and House, Fulham Palace, and Syon Park.