Affiliated to The Amateur Swimming Association (Midland District)
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Affiliated to The Amateur Swimming Association (Midland District) |
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Boldmere Swimming Club War Memorial To honour members of Boldmere Swimming Club who lost their lives in the First Word War a bronze statue was commissioned by members and friends of the club. The statue stood on a plinth inscribed with all the names of club members who died. The base was a drinking fountain so not only was it ornamental but it could be used by anyone using the park. The memorial was originally erected on what was known as Hallets Corner overlooking Powells pool, used by the swimming club as it's headquarters. It was unveiled by Alderman Pearson on October 21st 1921.
The original news paper article describing the ceromony can be seen here, be warned it is rather a large file (use your Browser's BACK button to return) or as a text document.
The Water fountain was unfortunately damaged but the statue survived and was restored with the help of the City of Birmingham and now stands in the foyer of Wyndley Swimming Baths.
The bronze statue is of a teacher and pupil, approximately 80cm high, and was designed and sculptured by Benjamin Creswick who lived at 'Elmwood', Jockey Road, Sutton Coldfield. This was the only non-architectural free-standing sculpture made by Creswick in Birmingham, who was a pupil of John Ruskin the great art critic. Many thanks to Marrion Baxter - Photographs and lots of other information (Sutton Coldfield Local History Librarian) Stuart Barratt - For taking the time to create the Memorial text document |
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Any comments about this site or if you would like more information about the club email us NOW at boldmere@btinternet.com |
