Memorial to the Great Exhibition facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Memorial to the Great Exhibition
The memorial in 2013
Location	London, United Kingdom
Coordinates	51°30′01″N 0°10′38″W / 51.500342°N 0.177292°W / 51.500342; -0.177292

The Memorial to the Great Exhibition is a special outdoor monument in London, United Kingdom. It was built to remember the Great Exhibition of 1851. This important statue also shows Albert, Prince Consort, who was a key figure in the exhibition. The memorial was designed by Joseph Durham and later changed a bit by Sydney Smirke. You can find it south of the Royal Albert Hall. It was first put in the Royal Horticultural Society gardens in 1863. Later, between 1891 and 1893, it was moved to its current spot when the gardens were rebuilt.

Discovering the Great Exhibition Memorial

This monument is a lasting tribute to a huge event from the past. It helps us remember the Great Exhibition and Prince Albert's role. The memorial stands tall, showing a famous person from history.

What Was the Great Exhibition?

The Great Exhibition was a massive international fair held in 1851. It took place in Hyde Park, London. People from all over the world came to see new inventions and amazing artworks. It was a showcase of industry, technology, and culture.

• It was officially called the "Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations."
• It was the first world's fair of its kind.
• The main building, the Crystal Palace, was made of cast iron and glass.
• Millions of people visited the exhibition.
• It showed off Britain's power and progress during the Victorian era.

Who Was Prince Albert?

Albert, Prince Consort was the husband of Queen Victoria. He was a very intelligent and forward-thinking person. Prince Albert was the main organizer and driving force behind the Great Exhibition. He believed that the exhibition would help improve industry and design. He also hoped it would promote peace among nations.

• He was born in Germany in 1819.
• He married Queen Victoria in 1840.
• He was a strong supporter of science, art, and education.
• His vision helped make the Great Exhibition a huge success.
• The memorial honors his important contribution to this event.

The Memorial's Design and History

The memorial is a beautiful piece of art with an interesting story. It has been in London for over 160 years. Its design reflects the style of the time it was built.

How Was the Memorial Designed?

The original design for the memorial came from Joseph Durham. He was a well-known sculptor. Later, Sydney Smirke, a famous architect, made some changes. The memorial features a statue of Prince Albert. It also includes other figures and decorations. These elements represent different aspects of the Great Exhibition.

• Joseph Durham was known for his public sculptures.
• Sydney Smirke designed many important buildings.
• The memorial is made of stone and has detailed carvings.
• It shows Prince Albert in a dignified pose.
• The design aims to capture the spirit of the 1851 exhibition.

Where Was It First Placed?

The memorial was first put up in 1863. It was located in the Royal Horticultural Society gardens. These gardens were a popular place for people to visit. The memorial was a central feature there for many years.

• The gardens were a beautiful setting for the monument.
• It was a place where people could relax and enjoy nature.
• The memorial was a tribute to Prince Albert, who had died in 1861.

Why Was It Moved?

The memorial was moved to its current spot between 1891 and 1893. This happened because the Royal Horticultural Society gardens were being changed. A new road, Prince Consort Road, was being built. The memorial needed a new home. It was carefully moved to its present location near the Royal Albert Hall. This new spot is still a very public and important place.

• The move was a big project.
• It shows how important the memorial was considered.
• Its new location keeps it visible to many people.
• The Royal Albert Hall is another famous building linked to Prince Albert.

Images for kids

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  The memorial in 2013