The drinking fountain in Clarence Park was erected in 1893 as a memorial to Major Joseph Barker. Major Barker lived in Holmfield House and was a local magistrate and owner of the Thornes Mill, a worsted mill. After his death in 1892, the workpeople of the mill subscribed to the fountain which is built in granite and sandstone. Both the drinking fountain and the water trough are Grade II listed.
WATER TROUGH
Near to the drinking fountain is a raised red granite water trough,commemorating Ann Clarkson who lived at Westgate Bridge and was a lifelong supporter of animal causes. Her friends and members of the RSPCA raised the money for the trough and it was erected in 1888 on Westgate End and is inscribed with a verse from “The Ancient Mariner” by Coleridge:
“He prayeth well who loveth well both man and bird and beast. He prayeth best who loveth best, all things both great and small for the dear God who loveth us He made and loveth all”.
