Home / Education / School May Rename House Over Diarist's Past
School May Rename House Over Diarist's Past
2 Dec, 2025
Summary
- A historical school is considering renaming a house named after Samuel Pepys.
- Concerns raised over Pepys' historical treatment of women.
- School consults students on whether Pepys reflects their values.
Hinchingbrooke School, a historical institution, is currently considering a significant change: the potential renaming of its Pepys House. This reconsideration stems from contemporary research into the personal conduct of its namesake, 17th-century diarist Samuel Pepys.
Recent findings, including those detailed in historical accounts, highlight aspects of Pepys' behavior, particularly his relationships with women, as harmful, abusive, and exploitative. These documented actions are seen as contradictory to the school's core values of respect, equality, and kindness, prompting the review.
The school is actively involving its student body in this decision-making process. This consultation aims to foster critical thinking about historical figures, 'cancel culture,' and how past actions should inform present-day choices, ultimately seeking a conclusion that reflects the community's values.
