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.