Wellington's Column, a striking tribute to the Duke of Wellington, stands proudly at the corner of William Brown Street and Lime Street in Liverpool, Merseyside. This towering monument, also known as the Waterloo Memorial, is a testament to the Duke's illustrious achievements and is a designated Grade II* listed building, capturing the admiration of both locals and visitors alike.
Following the Duke of Wellington's death in 1852, Liverpool, like many other cities, sought to honor his legacy with a grand monument. However, the journey from conception to completion was anything but straightforward. Initially, a committee was formed to gather public subscriptions, but contributions trickled in slowly. A design competition was held in 1856, and Andrew Lawson, an architect from Edinburgh, emerged victorious. Yet, the challenges were far from over as the search for an ideal location ensued, with several sites considered before settling on the current spot.
The foundation stone was laid by the Mayor of Liverpool on May 1, 1861, but construction faced delays due to subsidence issues. Despite being inaugurated on May 16, 1863, in a ceremony graced by the Mayor and Sir William Brown, the monument was not fully completed until late 1865. This delay made it one of the last column-monuments of its kind in Britain, but it was well worth the wait.
Wellington's Column is a marvel of architectural design and craftsmanship. The monument's foundation is constructed from Runcorn sandstone, with a granite pedestal and a column made of Darley Dale sandstone. Standing at an impressive 132 feet (40.2 meters), the column itself rises to 81 feet (24.7 meters), topped by a 25-foot (7.6-meter) bronze statue of the Duke. This statue, crafted from melted-down cannons captured at the Battle of Waterloo, depicts the Duke holding a scroll in his right hand, with his left resting on the hilt of his sword.
The column's base features a square pedestal adorned with bronze plaques on each side. These plaques are rich in historical narrative, with the southern plaque depicting the final charge at the Battle of Waterloo. The east and west plaques list the Duke's victorious battles, including Assaye, Talavera, Salamanca, and, of course, Waterloo. Bronze eagles and swags embellish the corners, adding to the monument's grandeur.
Scavenger hunts in Liverpool
Discover Liverpool with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Liverpool with your team!
For those with a taste for adventure, the column offers an internal staircase of 169 steps leading to a viewing platform. Although access is restricted, the thought of climbing within this monumental structure adds an element of intrigue and wonder. Imagine the views from the top, offering a unique perspective of Liverpool's vibrant cityscape.
Wellington's Column is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of victory and resilience. The Duke's legacy is immortalized not only in the bronze statue but also in the intricate details surrounding the base. The monument serves as a reminder of the Duke's significant contributions to British history and his strategic brilliance on the battlefield.
The monument also houses pre-metric standard Board of Trade measurements of length, with a brass strip set into the pavement measuring 100 feet (30.5 meters). This fascinating addition highlights the historical significance of trade and commerce in Liverpool, further enriching the monument's story.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, Wellington's Column is a must-visit landmark in Liverpool. Its towering presence and rich historical context make it a captivating destination for anyone exploring the city's cultural heritage.
In conclusion, Wellington's Column stands as a proud emblem of Liverpool's historical landscape. Its majestic design and profound symbolism create a lasting impression, inviting visitors to delve into the past and celebrate the enduring legacy of the Duke of Wellington. As you stand beneath this towering monument, take a moment to reflect on the stories it holds and the triumphs it commemorates.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.