author
William Gordon Perrin
b. 1874
Best known for writing about naval history, flags, and signaling, this British Admiralty librarian brought a researcher’s care and an insider’s knowledge to maritime subjects. His books helped shape how later readers understood British naval traditions.
1 Audiobook
About the author
Born on February 10, 1874, William Gordon Perrin built an unusual career that combined public service, military work, and historical research. He entered the Civil Service and joined the Admiralty in 1893, later serving as Admiralty Librarian from 1908 until his death in 1931.
Perrin is especially remembered for his work on naval flags and signals. He wrote British Flags: Their Early History, and Their Development at Sea and Nelson’s Signals, and he also edited important historical materials for the Navy Records Society.
His background in archives and official records gave his writing a careful, documentary style. That mix of practical experience and scholarly patience made him an enduring reference point for readers interested in British maritime history.