Monument To James John Berkeley, Camberwell Old Cemetery

The monument to James John Berkeley is a chest tomb located in Camberwell Old Cemetery, dating from around 1865. It commemorates James John Berkeley, a civil engineer who lived from 1819 to 1862. The tomb is made of stone and features a vermiculated top with three steps leading up to it. Atop the tomb is a statue of a reclining female figure with an oval bust. The inscription on the monument states that it was erected by the engineers and contractors of the Great Indian Peninsular Railway in recognition of Berkeley's distinguished career as their chief engineer. It highlights his work on the extensive railway system in Western India, including the Bhore and Thul Ghat inclines in the Syhadre mountain range, and expresses affection for his social qualities and the kindness he showed in his official duties. James Berkeley, who was trained by Robert Stephenson, is noted for building the first railway line in India. The funding for this monument was raised through public subscription, totaling £3,000.