Henry Segrave Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Sir Henry Segrave was a remarkable British pioneer in the world of speed, setting multiple land and water speed records in the 1920s. Born in 1896, Segrave’s passion for pushing boundaries and his fearless spirit led him to become one of the most celebrated figures in motorsports history.

Segrave’s achievements were nothing short of extraordinary. In 1926, he set a new land speed record of 152.33 mph at Southport, England, driving a 4-liter Sunbeam. Not content with conquering land, Segrave turned his attention to the water. In 1929, he piloted his speedboat, Miss England II, to a new water speed record of 98.76 mph on Windermere, becoming the first person to hold both land and water speed records simultaneously.

From 1917 to 1920, Segrave resided at Flat No.6 in St Andrew’s Mansions on Dorset Street in London, located in the historic Borough of Westminster. This area has been home to many notable figures throughout history and is known for its iconic landmarks, such as Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. While living here, Segrave likely dreamed of his future record-breaking feats and the legacy he would leave behind.

Tragically, Segrave’s life was cut short in 1930 at the age of 33 while attempting to break his own water speed record on Lake Windermere. Although his life ended prematurely, his legacy as a true pioneer and adventurer lives on. In 2009, a blue plaque was unveiled at his former residence in St Andrew’s Mansions, ensuring that his incredible story continues to inspire future generations of daring individuals to push the limits of what is possible.