Water trough at junction of Old Hill and Bromley Road

785/0/10128

OLD HILL Water trough at junction of Old Hill and Bromley Road

28-APR-06

II Granite cattle trough of the Metropolitan Drinking and Cattle Trough Association, dated 1887, with drinking fountain at one end within an ogee-shaped gable.The front is inscribed, 'METROPOLITAN DRINKING FOUNTAIN & CATTLE TROUGH ASSOCIATION', and the back is inscribed, '20th JUNE 1887/ERECTED BY THE INHABITANTS OF CHISLEHURST'. The cattle trough is now used as a planting bed. It is believed to be in its original location, although it may have been reassembled during previous roadworks.

HISTORY: The Metropolitan Drinking Association was founded in 1859 by Samuel Gurney MP. In 1867, following an increase nationally in concern for animal welfare, the Metropolitan Drinking Fountain Association began erecting water troughs for cattle. It was at this point that 'Cattle Trough' was added to its title.

SUMMARY OF IMPORTANCE: This granite cattle trough, erected by the Metropolitan Drinking Fountain and Cattle Trough Association, is a handsome piece of Victorian street furniture, reflecting charitable and civic concerns of the time. It is believed to be in its original location.