What if a coal merchant became a media mogul? Here at 113 Clapham Common North Side stands a testament to John Walter. This blue plaque commemorates the founder of The Times newspaper. Walter lived here between 1773 and 1783.
John Walter was born in London in 1739. He initially followed in his father’s footsteps. He became a coal merchant. Walter even played a key role in establishing London’s Coal Exchange.
In 1773 Walter’s success allowed him to buy this house on Clapham Common North Side. This area was becoming a popular suburban retreat. Walter lived here with his wife Frances Landen. The house dates back to around 1763. It is now known as Gilmore House. This is named after Deaconess Isabella Gilmore. She was the sister of William Morris. She lived here from 1891.
Walter’s life took an unexpected turn. In 1781 he gave up the coal business. He became a marine underwriter at Lloyd’s of London. Unfortunately, he faced heavy losses. This led to bankruptcy. By 1783 he had to give up this house and his town house in Bloomsbury.
Despite these setbacks Walter found a new passion in typography. In 1782 he bought a patent for the logographic system. This system was believed to speed up printing. In 1784 Walter founded the Logographic Press in Blackfriars. He began printing books there.
Then came his big idea. On January 1 1785 he launched a small newspaper. It was called The Daily Universal Register. In 1788 the newspaper was renamed The Times.
The early years were difficult. In 1789 Walter was jailed for libel against the Duke of York. He received a year’s imprisonment in Newgate Prison. Another year was added for libels against the Prince of Wales and Duke of Clarence.
Despite these challenges The Times grew in popularity. By 1793 it sold 4000 copies per day. In 1795 Walter retired to Teddington. He handed over the newspaper to his sons.
Walter’s son John took full control in 1803. He transformed The Times into a global force. By his death in 1847, The Times was one of the world’s most influential newspapers.
The Greater London Council chose a special typeface for this plaque. It reflects the style of The Times in the late 18th century. So, as you stand before this plaque remember John Walter. He was a coal merchant turned newspaper pioneer. His legacy lives on through The Times.