Description

TQ 2680 NW BAYSWATER ROAD, W2

65/51 Drinking fountain opposite Elms Mews

II

Drinking fountain. Dated 1872, provided by the Metropolitan Drinking Fountain and Cattle Trough Association. Cleaned and restored c1989. Pink granite with grey granite step. Battered base with rectangular column having segmental arched niche for spout and semi-circular basin. Surmounted by cross roofs giving a pediment to each face. Inscribed "January 1872" above niche, "J.E.D" in niche and "Know thyself" under basin. A typical example taken from the Association's catalogue. The Metropolitan Free Drinking Fountain Association (Cattle Trough added 1867) provided free fresh water to many humans and beasts at a time when ale and spirits were easier to obtain than water and most supplies contaminated. The Christian association of water with purity of spirit led evangelical Victorians to become patrons of the Association which provided a catalogue of functional designs although some wealthy patrons used their own.

Listing NGR: TQ2663180739

External Links

• Wikidata Q26567212

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Recommended Books

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  Harrow on the Hill: A photographic portrayal of listed buildings and structures (Historic Buildings Picture Guides)
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  The green guide for historic buildings: how to improve the environmental performance of listed and historic buildings
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  Yorkshire West Riding: Leeds, Bradford and the North (Pevsner Architectural Guides / Buildings of England)
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  Northumberland (Pevsner Architectural Guides: Buildings of England)
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  Worcestershire Revised Edition (Buildings of England) (Pevsner Architectural Guides: Buildings of England)
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  Cornwall (Pevsner Architectural Guides) (Pevsner Architectural Guides: Buildings of England)