2-914-035 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Wellington Monument, Wellington, Somerset, 1854. Monument designed by Thomas Lee, to commemorate the Duke of Wellington's victory at the Battle of Waterloo. It is the tallest three-sided obelisk in the world. 'The Committee, after satisfying themselves of the stability of the old shaft (which had been struck by lightning), decided that the original shaft, which was triangular, and about 100 feet high, should be carefully repaired, where necessary; and be carried up about 50 feet higher, so as to bring it more to the proportions of an obelisk. The staircase is to be carried to the top, where there is to be an opening in each face, commanding a magnificent view of the surrounding country...The Committee...hope also to raise sufficient funds to place colossal granite lions on the basement...and to surround the whole by a sunk fence, or "ha-ha"'. From "Illustrated London News", 1854.