John Chapple - Saving the Tower!

James will tell the story of saving the Cathedral Tower and much more. John Chapple Clerk of Works during the main restoration period - what is his story? What happened to the tower? What was the role of Chapple in this period surrounded by more famous characters? How did he come to be in St Albans and was there more than the Abbey church to his life in St Albans? Let me tell you, what I think, is his extraordinary story.

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 bGVjdHVyZXMgfCBzdGFsYmFuc2hpc3RvcnkgISBvcmc=

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