Subject

Shoemaker and trade unionist. Born in Roborough, South Devon. His year of birth on the plaque (1820) contradicts most other sources. He was an itinerant shoemaker for several years before moving to London and joining the Ladies Shoemakers' Society. In 1862 he became secretary of the London Trades Council and also chairman of the Manhood Suffrage and Vote by Ballot Association. He was a supporter of the French revolutionary Gustave Cluseret, who proposed starting a civil war in England. His views probably contributed to his lack of success in his attempts to enter parliament. Died in London.