William Collins Fountain

A gilded figure atop a stone pedestal. This is the William Collins Fountain. It stands as a silent testament to a man’s dedication and a city’s thirst, not for water, but for temperance. The William Collins Fountain, erected in 1881, honors Sir William Collins, a prominent figure in Glasgow’s history. He was a publisher, a Lord Provost, and a staunch advocate for temperance. This “Water Willie,” as he was affectionately known, served as Lord Provost from 1877 to 1880, a remarkable feat for a teetotaler in a city known for its, shall we say, spirited inhabitants. The William Collins Fountain isn’t just a fountain. It’s a symbol of a social movement that swept through 19th-century society, the temperance movement. This movement aimed to curb excessive alcohol consumption, a prevalent issue at the time. Temperance fountains, like this one, offered a free and safe alternative to the often-contaminated water sources, promoting abstinence and public health. Take a closer look at the William Collins Fountain. Notice the classical statue of a young woman holding a pitcher. It symbolizes purity and the life-giving properties of water. On the back of the pedestal, you’ll find a dedication plaque commemorating Collins’ contributions to the cause. A quote from Sir William Collins himself is set into the pavement, a permanent reminder of his words and deeds. While the fountain no longer flows, its message still resonates. The William Collins Fountain stands as a tribute to a man’s commitment and a city’s struggle with temperance, a fascinating chapter in Glasgow’s rich history.