Lecture

In-person talk at Kelmscott House and online: William Morris and his workers at Merton Abbey

15 January 2025
6-7pm
£9

In 1881 William Morris moved his cramped workshop in Queen Square, Bloomsbury to a picturesque 18th-century fabric-print...

In 1881 Willliam Morris moved his cramped workshop in Queen Square, Bloomsbury to a picturesque 18th-century fabric-printing works on the River Wandle in South London. Here in the old timber sheds, Morris established workshops for tapestry weaving, carpet knotting, block-printed textiles, woven textiles, stained-glass and a dye-works. Along with his older established workforce, Morris employed local girls to produce the beautiful carpets and boys to weave his famous tapestries. The works finally closed in 1940. David’s lecture will cover the fascinating history, and the people involved in this site, which was central to Morris & Company’s success.

David Saxby is a senior archaeologist for MOLA who led the excavations on the site in 1992 and published William Morris at Merton.

This listing is supplied by one of our museum partners and is not moderated by Art Fund.

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10% off in shop

The Kelmscott House shop stocks a wide range of gifts including china, textiles, books and stationery all inspired by the work of William Morris, founder of the Arts and Craft movement. Enjoy 10% off all purchases during your next visit with your National Art Pass.
Expires: 1 Jan 2025

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Visitor information

Address

The William Morris Society

26 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, London, Greater London, W6 9TA
020 8741 3735

Opening times

November-March Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 1-4pm

April-October Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 2-5pm

Exclusions and safety measures

PLEASE NOTE THAT KELMSCOTT HOUSE ITSELF IS PRIVATELY OWNED AND NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

The Society is based in the Coach house and Basement.

School groups and private tours are welcomed. Please email wmsadmin@williammorrissociety.org to arrange.

Visitor information

IndividualTiana Clarke Please note this is an example card and not a reflection of the final product

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