The Fountain Society

Exeter's Hidden Treasure

It may be cold out just now but not as chilly as the day this photograph was taken in the centre of Exeter.

It shows the old fountain which, for many years, stood in Southernhay, just opposite the United Reformed Church.

Sadly the fountain is no more but it is a fond memory that will be in tune with many Nostalgia readers who often ask: Where have all Exeter's fountains gone?
The photograph of the fountain was sent in by David May, of Exeter, who found it while tidying up at home.

He said: "The picture was probably taken some time between the two world wars.
"It again reminded me of the absence of a fountain in our city and how the restoration of a classical fountain would balance the recent improvement to the city centre."

Of course there was a fountain in Eastgate until relatively recently. A modern construction, it was built to remember the victims of the Blitz in May 1942.

The Phoenix Blitz fountain, sculpted by Roger Dean, was installed in 1992 but was removed to make way for the new shopping development.

When the Princesshay area was redeveloped, it was hoped the original fountain could be transferred to a new site.

Due to the way the fountain was constructed, however it proved impossible to move the memorial without damaging it. As a result Mr. Dean, from Exeter, created a new memorial — without a fountain — for Broadwalk House Gardens.

Mr. May went on: "It would be informative if Nostalgia readers expressed their opinions and suggestions on how we could start of campaign for such a restoration.

"Bedford Circus seems the obvious place, but areas such as Southernhay and perhaps the Cathedral Yard also seem appropriate.
"I believe there is a Fountain Society somewhere in the country which could probably offer help and information."
In fact, the Fountain Society was founded by Thelma Seear in 1986 and has the Prince of Wales as president.

It was formed to campaign for the restoration of fountains and cascades of aesthetic merit, and for the creation of new fountains and water features for people to enjoy.

It is also dedicated to the study of fountains in the UK and overseas.

Article Courtesy of The Exeter Express and Echo.