Statue in Hamilton Square Gardens, Birkenhead commemorating John Laird d. 1874, shipbuilder
Location
Hamilton Square Gardens, Birkenhead, Merseyside, England
Transcript
'JOHN LAIRD / BORN 14 JUNE 1805 / DIED 29 OCTOBER 1874'
Details
Description: Bronze statue on granite plinth, depicts Laird in frock coat, trousers and side whiskers - 'the ordinary dress of an English gentleman' 'Belfast News-Letter'. He holds the plans of Birkenhead Docks. Signed and dated by artist.
Type: Statue
Materials: Bronze; granite
Date Erected: 1877
Artists: Albert Bruce-Joy; Robert Masefield & Co, Chelsea [founders]
Type: Statue
Materials: Bronze; granite
Date Erected: 1877
Artists: Albert Bruce-Joy; Robert Masefield & Co, Chelsea [founders]
People
Laird, John
Age: 69
Date of Death: 29/10/1874
Cause of Death: Unknown/None
Rank / Occupation: Shipbuilder
Organisation: William Laird & Son
Age: 69
Date of Death: 29/10/1874
Cause of Death: Unknown/None
Rank / Occupation: Shipbuilder
Organisation: William Laird & Son
Extra
Notes: Laird was a pioneer in building iron ships. He began construction of Birkenhead Docks from 1844 and was also a politician and local benefactor. The statue was moved in 1924 to make room for a war memorial.
Bibliography: David Saunders 'Maritime Memorials & Mementoes' (Yeovil, 1996) p. 21.
Bibliography: David Saunders 'Maritime Memorials & Mementoes' (Yeovil, 1996) p. 21.