Gurney Memorial Drinking Fountain

The Gurney Memorial Drinking Fountain, built in 1861 by J Bell, is a drinking fountain located on the north side of Broadway in Stratford, E15. It features a tapering granite obelisk with a pointed head, set on a granite plinth that supports quadrant basins. The fountain is inscribed with the words 'In Remembrance of Samuel Gurney'. At each corner of the fountain, there are four cast-iron lamp columns with later lanterns, each standing on granite plinths. Samuel Gurney (1786-1856) was a banker and philanthropist from a prominent family of English Quakers who lived near Stratford for most of his life. He was a partner in the Norwich banking firm of Overand, Gurney & Co, which became the largest discounting house in the world. Gurney was known for his advocacy of penal reform, being the brother of prison reformer Elizabeth Fry, and he campaigned against slavery. Additionally, he was a significant philanthropist, supporting educational charities, aiding the poor, and contributing to local charitable efforts.