Beneath this stone tablet lies a story of love, loss, and lasting legacy. This is the In memory of Ewan Agnew Plaque. It stands as a poignant reminder of a father’s devotion to his son.
Let’s delve into the history behind the In memory of Ewan Agnew Plaque. The inscription reads: “THIS LAND WAS ACQUIRED BY THE OXFORD PRESERVATION TRUST IN 1934 THROUGH A GIFT OF PHILIP LESLIE AGNEW IN MEMORY OF HIS SON EWAN SIEGFRIED AGNEW NEW COLLEGE OXFORD 1912-1914 PRO PATRIA.”
Philip Leslie Agnew, a publisher and proprietor of Punch, donated this land to the Oxford Preservation Trust in 1934. This act immortalizes his son, Ewan Siegfried Agnew. Ewan’s life was marked by both privilege and tragedy.
Ewan was born in 1893. He attended Eton College and later New College, Oxford in 1914. His studies were interrupted by the First World War. He served as a Lieutenant in the 5th Lancers. Ewan was even mentioned in despatches for his service.
He survived the war but suffered lasting effects. After the war, Ewan became an author. In 1922, he ran as the Liberal candidate for the Holland with Boston division of Lincolnshire. Notably, he wrote a science-fiction play titled “The Shingling of Jupiter” in 1924.
Ewan’s personal life also faced turmoil. He married Marion Pearson in 1917. However, they divorced in 1929. He remarried Constance Mary Newell shortly after his divorce. Sadly, Ewan Siegfried Agnew died in 1930 at the young age of 36. His death was attributed to illnesses contracted during the Great War.
In his memory, his father Philip donated this land. It now stands as the Wolvercote Community Orchard. The Oxford Preservation Trust ensures its upkeep. Today, the orchard flourishes with rare and unusual apples, pears, and quinces.
The land opposite The Trout pub was under threat from development in 1934. The Oxford Preservation Trust bought it with Philip’s support. Part of the land became allotments which are still in use today. Later, the remaining area transformed into the Community Orchard.
The Wolvercote Tree Group planted the orchard sixty years later. The Trust even receives an annual rent of a basket of apples. This is given during the annual Apple Day at harvest time. This plaque, carved by Eric Gill, serves as a testament to Ewan’s life.
The In memory of Ewan Agnew Plaque is more than just a marker. It represents a father’s love. It embodies a community’s dedication to preserving history. It also symbolizes the enduring power of remembrance. Take a moment to reflect on the life of Ewan Siegfried Agnew and the legacy he left behind.