3-003-845 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Gurney Memorial at Stratford, [London], 1861. 'Stratford-le-Bow was the scene last week of an interesting ceremony - the inauguration of a handsome monument to the memory of the late Mr. Samuel Gurney, who was for many years an inhabitant of the neighbourhood, where his munificent liberality will be long held in grateful remembrance by all classes of the inhabitants. The memorial consists of a beautifully-proportioned obelisk in grey granite, 42ft. in height, executed by the Cheesewing Granite Company, from the designs of Mr. John Bell. Two sides of the base form drinking-fountains, the water flowing from groups of water-lilies, boldly sculptured in white marble. The front of the base is a polished slab of granite, with the following inscription in gold letters: "In remembrance of Samuel Gurney, who died the 6th of June, 1856. Erected by his fellow-parishioners and friends, 1861. 'When the ear heard him, then it blessed him.' " Several thousand persons assembled on Monday week to witness the opening ceremony, which was conducted by Mr. John Davis, J.P., of Cranbrook Park, the Vicar and many of the neighbouring gentry taking part in the proceedings. Several members of the Gurney family were also present'. From "Illustrated London News", 1861.