The original Blue Plaque scheme was run by English Heritage. The scheme was founded by The Royal Society of Arts in 1867. Plaques were of different shaped and colours, most were chocolate brown and made by Minton.
In 1901 The scheme was taken over by the LCC it was decided to keep the basic design and the colour blue. Glazed Doulton ware was found to be cheaper.
In 1986 the GLC was abandoned and the scheme was taken over by English Heritage.
In order to be eligible for a plaque the individual must have been dead for 20years, or be over a hundred years old. They must be considered eminent by a majority of members of their own profession and have made an outstanding contribution to the welfare or happiness of the human race.
Plaques must be erected on the actual building inhabited by the person, not on the site where the building once was, be clearly visible to the passer by. No one may have more than two plaques.
There are at least 12 plaques in Southend and 3 in Rochford.
Sadly English Heritage will be abandoning the Blue Plaque Scheme, because of lack of funds.