Green Plaque Unveiled to Honour William Palmer’s Educational Legacy
- Posted 06 Oct 2025
USP College proudly hosted the unveiling of a Green Plaque at its Palmer’s Campus in Grays on Monday 6 October, commemorating the life and legacy of William Palmer (1633–1710). The plaque was presented by the Thurrock History Society to the William Palmer Trust, recognising centuries of educational benefit to the borough.
Palmer, a London-born merchant and Lord of the Manor of Grays, established a charitable Trust in 1706 to fund a school for disadvantaged children in the parish. His vision was to teach ten poor children to read, write, and learn Latin—laying the foundation for what would become Palmer’s School and eventually USP College.
It’s important to remember those who shaped our community through education. William Palmer’s legacy lives on through the students supported by the Trust today.
The plaque is now mounted on the outer gate of the Palmer’s Campus, visible to the public as a lasting tribute. The William Palmer Trust continues to provide financial support for students in need across the three Grays parishes, ensuring Palmer’s vision endures.
