Nestled in the heart of Spitalfields at 18 Folgate Street, the Dennis Severs House stands as a remarkable testament to the vibrant tapestry of history, imagination, and the spirit of London. This June, as we celebrate Pride Month, we also honor the legacy of Dennis Severs, the visionary behind this enchanting house, and reflect on its unique contribution to London's cultural heritage.
A Journey of Love and Imagination
Dennis Severs' journey began far from the cobbled streets of Spitalfields. Born in Southern California, Dennis nurtured a deep love for historical fiction and in 1967, Dennis moved to London—a city he described as "love at first sight." His passion for history and storytelling found the perfect canvas in a derelict house in Spitalfields.
Severs purchased the house and reimagined it to tell the story of an imaginary Huguenot family, weaving a narrative that spanned generations. Through meticulous attention to detail, Severs recreated the sights, sounds, and smells of 18th and 19th century Spitalfields, transforming the house into a living time capsule.
Dennis Severs' vision was not his alone. Ceramicist Simon Pettet, who came to live with Severs, contributed his artistic talents to the house, helping to bring the imaginative narrative to life. Together, they created an immersive experience that captivated visitors from the moment the house opened its doors in 1980.
Dennis Severs feared that his creation might not survive him. However, his legacy was secured when, upon his death in 1999, the house was sold to the Spitalfields Trust. Today, the Trust maintains the house, with some of Dennis' friends continuing to serve as trustees, ensuring that his vision endures. The Dennis Severs House remains a popular museum, drawing visitors from around the world.
Celebrating Pride Month - ‘The Queerest House in Spitalfields’
In addition to its historical significance, the Dennis Severs House holds a special place in the hearts of the LGBTQ+ community. Dennis Severs, an openly gay American artist, infused his creation with a sense of identity and pride. The house proudly calls itself "the queerest house in Spitalfields," celebrating its unique heritage and the life of its creator.
Each June, the house honors Dennis Severs and his contributions to the arts and LGBTQ+ culture. It stands as a beacon of acceptance and creativity, a testament to the power of imagination and the enduring impact of one man's vision. This June, as we commemorate Pride Month, we also celebrate the life and legacy of Dennis Severs, whose passion and ingenuity continue to inspire. The house is also bringing back its performances of SIMON’S STORY - an intimate play detailing the relationship in between Simon and Dennis, from when they first met to moving into the house together and creating it into what it is today.
Visiting the Dennis Severs House
For those who wish to experience this captivating piece of history, the Dennis Severs House is a must-visit destination. Located at 18 Folgate Street, Spitalfields E.1, the house offers a unique journey through time, allowing visitors to witness the changing fortunes of the Jervis family and the transformation of Spitalfields itself. Click here to learn more about visiting the house.
