Statue of the Second Marquess of Bute facts for kids
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This article is about a statue of the Second Marquess of Bute. It stands in Callaghan Square in Cardiff, Wales. The statue honors John Crichton-Stuart (1793–1848). He was very important for developing the Cardiff Docks, which were a major port. The statue was first shown to the public in 1853. It was designed by a sculptor named J. Evan Thomas.
In 1975, the statue became a Grade II listed building. This means it is an important historical structure that needs to be protected.
Who Was the Marquess of Bute?
John Crichton-Stuart was known as the Second Marquess of Bute. A Marquess is a noble title, like a duke or an earl. He inherited large estates in Scotland and Wales in 1814 after his grandfather passed away. He also became the Lord Lieutenant of Glamorgan, which was a high-ranking official role.
The Marquess played a huge part in making Cardiff a busy industrial city. He helped develop its trade and industries. One of his biggest achievements was opening the Bute West Dock on October 5, 1839. This dock was a key part of Cardiff's growth as a port. He died suddenly in Cardiff on March 18, 1848.
Making the Statue
After the Marquess died, people wanted to remember him. A public meeting was held on May 1, 1848. A group was formed to create a "colossal statue" in his honor. They expected it to cost about £2000.
The Welsh sculptor J. Evan Thomas designed the statue. He even showed it at the famous 1851 Great Exhibition in London. It was placed right in the middle of The Crystal Palace, a huge glass building. The statue was first shown in Cardiff on July 13, 1853. It stood in front of the old Cardiff Town Hall. This was the very first statue ever put up in Cardiff.
The figure of John Crichton-Stuart is made from bronze. He is shown wearing a large, flowing ceremonial robe. The bronze figure stands on a tall granite base. This base is about 13 feet (4 meters) high. The total height of the statue and its base is about 22 feet (7 meters). It used to have an iron fence around it.
Where is the Statue Now?
Over the years, the statue has moved a few times. It was later moved to the southern end of St Mary Street. There, it stood on an extra round stone base. It became like a roundabout in the middle of the road junction.
Finally, in 1999, the statue was moved to Bute Square. This area was later renamed Callaghan Square. That is where you can find the statue today.
