Lost in time, the Turret from St Olave Church stands. This isn’t your average drinking fountain. It’s a survivor from a bygone era.
The Turret from St Olave Church once capped the tower of St Olave Church on Tooley Street. Imagine the original church standing tall since the 11th century. It was rebuilt in 1734. Then in 1926, the church was declared redundant. The nave was demolished and the tower followed in 1928.
But this turret, it had other plans. It was moved to Tanner Street Park. The sale of the church site funded this park. So it made sense to keep the turret as a link to the past.
Look closely. The turret was converted into a drinking fountain. It gave people water after the relocation. Isn’t it ironic that a piece of a demolished church now quenched thirst?
Originally, the St Olave Church turret had a pointy onion-shaped roof. The 1647 drawing by Wenceslaus Hollar shows it. Sadly that feature is now lost. It’s a pity. It made the turret an attractive item.
The turret is constructed from Portland stone. Henry Flitcroft designed it in 1737. This was to replace an earlier damaged structure.
In 2018, the Turret from St Olave Church was restored. This was part of a park renovation. Now, the turret no longer leans. There is also an information board here. But here’s a secret. The turret is no longer a functioning fountain.
The story of the Turret from St Olave Church has a link to Parliament. When developers wanted to demolish the tower of the church, there was a debate. Consent was given but with a catch. Bermondsey Borough Council had to use funds from the church land sale. This was to create a recreation ground and keep the turret as a fountain.
The Turret from St Olave Church stands as a reminder of St Olave’s Church. It also reminds us of the debates and decisions that shape our city. The turret is a Grade II listed structure today.
So next time you pass by, remember the Turret from St Olave Church is more than just stone. It is a piece of London’s history, preserved for all to see. It whispers tales of churches, debates, and the ever-changing landscape of London.