Isn’t it wonderful how cities commemorate their founders? This is the John Plimmer and Fritz Statue. It stands at the base of Plimmer Steps, just off Lambton Quay. Here, we celebrate a man often called the Father of Wellington.
John Plimmer was born in Shropshire, England in 1812. He died in Wellington in 1905. He was indeed an entrepreneur. Plimmer arrived in Wellington in 1841 aboard the ship Gertrude. He quickly became a prominent figure. He was a builder, businessman, and civic leader.
In 1851, Plimmer purchased the stranded sailing ship Inconstant. He converted the ship’s hull into a warehouse. It also became one of Wellington’s first piers. This became known as “Plimmer’s Ark.” It was a hub for business in early Wellington. It served as an auction house, customs office, and even a lighthouse.
Plimmer served on the Wellington Provincial Council. He was a member from 1856 to 1857. He also served on the first Wellington Town Board in 1863. From 1870 to 1871, he was on the Wellington City Council.
His most significant public service was organizing the Wellington and Manawatu Railway Company. He worked on this between 1880 and 1886. Plimmerton, a suburb on the main railway north, was named in his honor.
This bronze John Plimmer and Fritz Statue is based on a photograph of John Plimmer. The photo was taken around 1900. Architect Tom Tischler created a maquette from the photo. Sculptor Ross Wilson, along with Judy Alexander and model-maker Alex Kennedy, used the maquette to create the bronze sculpture. The John Plimmer and Fritz Statue was erected in 1996. It shows Plimmer and his dog walking towards Lambton Quay. In 2013, it was voted Wellington’s most popular public artwork.
Interestingly, John Plimmer lived near the top of what are now Plimmer Steps. His dog, Fritz, was his constant companion for many years. You’ll also notice an oak tree. Plimmer planted it in his garden in the mid-1800s. It still stands near the top of Plimmer Steps.
And now, here’s a fun fact. During colder months, anonymous knitters sometimes knit waistcoats and scarves for both John and Fritz. It’s a quirky way the community shows its affection for this statue.
The Wellington Sculpture Trust established this statue in 1983. It is a voluntary charitable trust. It is dedicated to enriching Wellington with contemporary and innovative public art. So, next time you’re here, take a moment. Remember John Plimmer, the Father of Wellington, and his loyal companion, Fritz. Their legacy is etched in the heart of this city.