Symposium

Strangers, Silk Weavers and Citizens: the Lives of Walloon and Huguenot Immigrants to England, 1560 to 1800. Symposium, Wednesday, 30 September 2026 : Image: Portrait Master Silk Weaver, possibly of James Leman copyright Victoria & Albert Museum. Strangers, Silk Weavers and Citizens: the Lives of Walloon and Huguenot Immigrants to England, 1560 to 1800. Rochester Huguenot Museum, 95 High Street, Rochester ME1 1LX. 11am - 4.30pm. Coffee from 11am, lectures from 11.30am. Please note we are unable to allow entry before 11am. Ticket price includes buffet lunch - please let us know of any dietary requirements or allergies at least one week in advance by emailing [email protected]. Keynote speaker, Dr Vivienne Larminie, will consider the context of Huguenot immigration to England in the 16th and 18th centuries. Professor Jackie Eales will speak about new research on the Canterbury Walloon and Huguenot community (1575-1800). Architect, Clive Bowley, will explore the topography of Canterbury silk weaving. Operations Manager Lara Dix will discuss the Museum’s collections. The day ends with an examination by Victoria Harley of a remarkable 18th century silk waistcoat made by the Spitalfields designer and master weaver, James Leman.