Right here, in the heart of Kingston upon Thames’s bustling market place, stands a monument that tells the story of a man whose life intertwined with the very pulse of this town. This is The Shrubsole Memorial, a testament to Henry Shrubsole, a man who served the people of Kingston not once but three times as their mayor.
The story of Henry Shrubsole is one of business, service, and tragedy. He came from a family of undertakers and drapers who expanded their enterprise into banking. He was dedicated to his community. A Parliamentary Agent and Banker, he also served as a County Magistrate. His commitment to the people of Kingston led him to serve as their Mayor three times, a testament to his popularity and leadership.
He died in office in 1880, unexpectedly, while distributing gifts to the poor at a charity event. This poignant moment became forever etched in the memory of the town. In his honor, they erected this exquisite memorial. Sculpted by Francis John Williamson, The Shrubsole Memorial is a graceful piece of Carrara marble. This monument, unveiled by the Duke of Cambridge himself, features a woman in classical robes, holding a vase on her shoulder and the hand of a young boy gathering water in a small bowl. It’s a serene scene, a fitting tribute to a man who was dedicated to his community.
The inscription on the memorial reads: “Erected by Public Subscription/ in memory of/ HENRY SHRUBSOLE ESQ. J.P./ Three times elected Mayor of this/ Borough in 1877, 1878 and 1879/ who died suddenly in the third year/ of his office whilst presiding over an/ occasion of Public Charity/ 18th January 1880./ “An honourable Counsellor” St. Mark XV.43/ Dedicated to public use by/ H.R.H. The Duke of Cambridge KG/ 1st May 1882.”
The inscription recounts the details of the memorial’s origins. In the inscription, you can also find the inscription “dedicated to the public use,” a testament to the monument’s purpose, which is not only to honor Henry Shrubsole’s legacy, but to stand as a symbol of his dedication to the public.