George Parker Bidder Monument About 5 Metres South Of Tower Of Church Of St. Peter

The George Parker Bidder Monument is a churchyard monument located about 5 metres south of the tower of the Church of St. Peter in Stoke Fleming. It dates from around 1878 and is made of granite, designed in the form of an early medieval cross with short arms on a round head, featuring roll-moulded arrises. The monument stands on a stepped granite plinth that has a lead inscription in upper case lettering, which reads: "In memory of George Parker Bidder, born June 14th 1806, died September 20th 1878." George Parker Bidder was born in Moretonhampstead and lived at Stoke House in Stoke Fleming. He was recognized as an infant prodigy, a civil engineer, and a mathematician. His notable achievements include working with Robert Stephenson on the London and Birmingham railway project in 1834, helping to establish the Electric Telegraph Company, constructing the Victoria Docks in London, and serving as president of the Devonshire Association.