Friends of Segedunum talk

Historic Event

This is a historic event or exhibition. It is no longer available to visit and this page is only retained as a record of its details.

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Roger Cornfoot, Knott's Flats, Tynemouth CC BY-SA 2.0

Dates

21 June 2025 (historic event)

About

Sir James Knott – Tyneside’s most charitable shipowner

Join us at Segedunum Roman Fort for an enlightening talk by Mike Coates.

Discover the remarkable life of Sir James Knott, born in Willington Quay, Wallsend in 1855. From his humble beginnings as a shipping clerk on Newcastle Quayside, Knott rose to prominence, establishing the renowned Prince Steam Shipping Line. By 1914, his fleet boasted 45 vessels trading globally, earning him a knighthood in 1917.

Tragedy struck during the First World War when Knott lost two sons. In their memory, he dedicated his life to philanthropy, funding numerous charitable causes across North East England. His legacy includes the impressive Knotts Flats housing scheme and the YMCA in North Shields. The Sir James Knott Trust, established to continue his charitable work, has awarded over £27 million in grants since 1990.

Join us to learn more about the man whose generosity has left an indelible mark on Tyneside.