Right here lies the George and Harriet Livesey grave. It marks the final resting place of a remarkable man and his wife.
George Thomas Livesey was born in 1834. He became an eminent gas engineer industrialist and philanthropist. Livesey inherited his business from his father Thomas. He was the chairman of the South Metropolitan Gas Company. A blue plaque calls him one of Southwark’s greatest industrialists.
Livesey’s early life was steeped in the gas industry. His father worked for the South Metropolitan Gas Company. George and his brother Frank grew up familiar with the company and its gasworks.
In 1848 George joined the company as an assistant to his father. By 1862 he rose to the position of engineer. After his father’s death in 1871 George became the company secretary. His brother Frank later succeeded him as chief engineer. In 1885 George became chairman of the board.
Livesey revolutionized the gas industry. He introduced a profit-sharing plan for employees. This gave workers the right to appoint board members. He also designed the innovative water-sealed gas holder.
Livesey’s influence extended beyond his company. He worked as an engineer for other gas companies. He also served as president of the British Association of Gas Engineers. He even earned a knighthood in 1902.
Beyond his industrial achievements Livesey was a philanthropist. He founded the Camberwell Public Library in 1890. It later became the Livesey Museum for Children. He also donated land for a public recreation area.
George married Harriet Howard in 1859. They had no children but Livesey taught Sunday school for many years. He played football and cricket with his students at The Crystal Palace.
George Thomas Livesey died in 1908 from cancer. He was buried here at Nunhead Cemetery. In his memory the gas industry established a professorship at the University of Leeds.
Harriet Livesey her story intertwined with George’s life and legacy rests beside him. Their shared commitment to community and industry is now etched in stone for eternity.
Standing here we honor George and Harriet Livesey. Their legacy of innovation philanthropy and community involvement continues to inspire us today. The George and Harriet Livesey grave serves as a reminder of their lasting impact.