Royal Bargemasters
Royal Bargemasters have been serving their monarchs for over 800 years, yet their story has never been told. Always working in close proximity to their sovereigns, they have witnessed and played their part in many of the important events in our country’s history. They have been close witnesses to rebellions and coronations, to initial courting and grand royal weddings, and added their colourful presence to the splendour of celebrations and pageants. Painstakingly researched by ex-Royal Bargemaster Robert Crouch and professional researcher Beryl Pendley, this beautifully illustrated book offers a colourful insight into the role of the Bargemasters over the centuries, revealing the part they have played in both the day-to-day lives of the Royal Family and their contribution to great ceremonial occasions from the Plantagenets to our present Queen.
ROBERT CROUCH served over 20 years in the Royal Household, 8 as a Royal Waterman and 12 as Her Majesty’s Bargemaster, during which time he became intrigued by the origins of the Royal Bargemasters. Ex MD of Catamaran Cruisers Ltd and Thamesline PLC, in retirement he is busier than ever, promoting Thames rowing events and writing and researching. He lives in Kent. BERYL PENDLEY is a qualified Barrister who spent 10 years as Assistant to Henry Paston-Bedingfeld, Rouge Croix (later York Herald) at the College of Arms, part of the royal household. She has own genealogical research business (Reger Research) and has been a researcher for over 35 years. She lives in Wiltshire.