Statue of Hr Marsden

The Statue of H R Marsden, located on the north side of Woodhouse Lane in Woodhouse Moor, was erected in 1878. This approximately life-size statue depicts Marsden in contemporary dress, complete with a mayoral robe and chain of office, while he carries a scroll. It stands on a square marble pedestal featuring a cornice and stepped plinth. The pedestal is inscribed with the words: 'H R MARSDEN/ 1878/ ERECTED BY UPWARDS OF/ 30,000 SUBSCRIBERS'. The sides and rear of the pedestal have plaques carved in low relief, representing 'EDUCATION', 'INDUSTRY', and 'BENEVOLENCE'.

Henry Rowland Marsden, born in 1823 to a soldier, worked at Marshall's flax mill and later became an apprentice tool-maker to William Wesley. In 1848, he emigrated to New York, where he worked for an engineering firm and patented several inventions, including a stone-crushing machine in 1855, which is depicted on the 'industry' plaque. Marsden returned to Leeds in 1862, became a member of the Council in 1866, was elected a Liberal Alderman in 1872, and served as mayor from 1873 to 1875, during which he hosted the Duke of Edinburgh. He was well-liked, and a book about his time as mayor was published in 1875. Marsden passed away in 1876, and his memorial is located in Holbeck Cemetery. The statue was originally positioned closer to the city centre, at the junction of Merrion Street and Woodhouse Lane.