John Chapple - Saving the Tower!

By the mid-nineteenth century, the fabric of the Abbey was in a dreadful state, and there was real concern that the tower might collapse. The story of how famous benefactors and reputed architects intervened is relatively well known. Far less attention has been given to the Clerk of Works – John Chapple – who had to deliver the restoration. James Gaffney will discuss his contribution, including how he interacted with the architects and paymasters, how he came to be in St Albans, and whether there was more to his life in St Albans than the demanding task of saving the Abbey.

James (or Seamus) Gaffney is a lifelong resident of St Albans. He attended a local school followed by Herts College of Building. A career of 47 years working in Construction Management then followed with James progressing from site management trainee to Operations Director. In 2018 he became a St Albans city guide and in 2021 a cathedral guide.

This lecture will be available in person only at Dagnall Street Baptist Church. Please click on the button above right to register. You will then receive confirmation of your registration by email return. Registration closes at 3.30pm on Tuesday 25 November.

If you have any questions, please email Gill Girdziusz via lectures@stalbanshistory.org

Photo above: John Chapple with his workmen in 1878 (St Albans Cathedral library)