The Drinking Fountain
Edward Bannister (1821-1916), Mayor of Grimsby (1868-1869), made his fortune by founding one of the worlds largest coal merchants.
He used this wealth for a range of civic projects for the benefit of the people of Grimsby.
From steering the creation of Cleethorpes Pier, to setting up Grimsby Hospital, to the creation of Grimsby’s first Art School, Bannister left a tremendous legacy.
He donated the fountain to the people of Grimsby in 1869.
Our exhibition will reinvigorate the town’s enthusiasm for such an important relic.
As well as displaying a number of artefacts relating to the Bannister story and the history of the fountain, the exhibition will also provide an online archive which we’ll add your stories to!
Images of the Memorial Fountain donated by Edward Bannister in 1869
(Click images to zoom)
Edward Bannister and The Fountain's Timeline
Born In 1821
September 3rd. Edward John Bannister, founder of the Bannister company, mayor, JP, philanthropist and art patron, born in Albion Street, Hull.
1835
Apprenticed to Mr Jacques to learn ornamental painting, then studied under Prof. Warren of Glasgow. He undertook a walking tour of Scotland in 1841 making numerous sketches.
1842
Attends the Society of British Artists in London but forced to return home due to illness.
1844
Paints local street scenes - Savile Street, Hull 1844, which is in Ferens Art Gallery, Hull.
1851
Lives at York Parade, Sculcoates, East Yorkshire. Works as a landscape artist.
1853
Sets up Ed Bannister and Co. and marries Amelia Wolfe.
1868 - 1869
As Mayor of Grimsby, generously donates Clock Tower in Central Market Place and the fountain in Prince Albert Gardens.
1886
He is instrumental in achieving formal accreditation for art classes to commence in Brewery Street and then in 1898, a new wing is
opened, which becomes the Silver Street School for Arts and Crafts.
1916
Edward dies and is buried in Ainslie Street Cemetery.
1977
Fountain is restored for Elizabeth II Jubilee and moved to replace the controversial bucket fountains in St James’ Square.
1996
The fountain was surveyed for Grade II listing by English Heritage.
1997
Fountain damaged by council workmen and put into storage in the basement of Nelson House (Formerly on Freeman Street).
1999
June. The fountain was given Grade II listing, but then in November was delisted as it was no longer
on display.
2013
Fountain found in a scrapyard by Lee Brocklebank. He recognises its importance to Grimsby and purchases the fountain to save it for future generations.
2022
With the help of Lee, the Grimsby and Cleethorpes and district Civic Society take up the case of the fountain with the aim of restoring it and returning it back to Grimsby in it’s full glory!
The Edward Bannister Legacies
Find out more about some of the legacies that Edward Bannister left to the people of Grimsby.
