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What is the Whitworth Monument?
The
Whitworth monument was erected in 1876 in recognition of Benjamin
Whitworth and his contributions to the town of Drogheda. It consisted
of an ornamental pinnacle with four display panels
on a square plinth. It was designed by the architect P.J. Dodd
and also included a fresh drinking-water fountain with two taps and iron
drinking cups.
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It was first erected at the
bottom of Peter Street, just opposite the Tholsel. It was a
magnificent centrepiece in the centre of a very busy
town. But as the town prospered, it began to cause an
obstruction, and the local traders in Peter Street petitioned
the Corporation to have it removed. In October 1894 it was
removed from Peter Street, and re-erected at The Mall/North
Quay, very close to where the Depatment of Social Welfare
office is currently located. |
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Where is the Whitworth
monument now?
The monument stood at the Mall for almost
70 years. But then, in 1965 it was removed once more. However
this time it did not relocate to another location. It just
disappeared, without a trace, without a reason. In the
intervening years there have been many pleas to the
Corporation to have the circumstances investigated and to have
the monument re-erected and restored, but to no
avail.
Surely there should be some recognition of
Benjamin Whitworth and his contribution to the town of
Drogheda?
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Read about "
The Whitworth Drinking Fountain" from the Irish Builder,
January 1877.
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