Kitty Bo-Peep – The Eccentric Sheppard
Kindra ‘Kitty’ Faulks, a newly minted Freeman of the City, celebrated her first year by participating in the Worshipful Company of Woolmen's annual sheep drive for charity. But this was no ordinary stroll across the Thames. Drawing inspiration from the archives of Lewis Masonic, the publishing house she runs alongside her husband, she donned 18th-century garb for the occasion. Lewis Masonic was begun by the Hogg family, descendants of the Scottish poet and Freemason James Hogg (1770-1825), known as the "Ettrick Shepherd".
"What better way to mark this milestone than by taking part in this brilliantly eccentric tradition?" said Kitty Bo-Peep, resplendent in her Georgian-inspired pastoral costume. "And with a touch of Marie-Antoinette flair too!"
Kindra is a proud member of the Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers, one of London’s livery companies dating back to 1403; and in her spare time, she provides historical characters and talks to museums and heritage sites. She researched the genteel pastoral fashions of the 1700s to produce a costume reminiscent of the nursery rhyme character.
Kitty Bo-Peep is married to Martin Faulks, Worshipful Master of Burlington Lodge No 96, and used the event to champion charitable causes. She spearheaded two fundraising efforts: one for the Stationers' Foundation and another for the London Freemasons' "Up Against Time" appeal supporting the London Air Ambulance.
"London's Air Ambulance provides a vital service to all Londoners," explained Bo-Peep. "The 'Up Against Time' appeal will fund new helicopters that can reach critical cases in just eleven minutes."
Both fundraising initiatives proved successful, exceeding their targets and raising a combined total of over £1,600 (including Gift Aid).
The sight of a shepherdess guiding sheep through the heart of London certainly turned heads. But for Bo-Peep, the event was about more than just a quirky tradition. It was a chance to embrace her civic role, support worthy causes, and add a touch of historical charm to the City streets.
She even ran into a familiar face!
This article is part of the Arena Magazine, Issue 56 Winter 2024 edition.
Arena Magazine is the official magazine of the London Freemasons – Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.
Read more articles in the Arena Issue 56 here.
