Hamilton Memorial Drinking Fountain

Drinking fountain of 1878, donated by Lady Hamilton through the Metropolitan Drinking Fountain and Cattle Trough Association. The fountain is constructed of polished pink granite and comprises a rectangular base with a plinth featuring spouts and semi-circular basins on three sides. A tall column rises from the base, topped with an urn. The fountain is inscribed to the memory of Sir James Hamilton and includes religious inscriptions reflecting the evangelical aims of the Association, which was established in 1859 to provide free fresh water for people and animals at a time when access to clean water was scarce. Lady Hamilton designed the acorn jets, a feature found on many fountains of the period, following public responses regarding the perceived impropriety of water issuing from animal mouths. While the Association provided standard designs, wealthy patrons often commissioned their own variations.