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About this place
The Statue of George Palmer in Reading is a bronze figure standing in Palmer Park, Berkshire, England. It honours George Palmer (1818–1897), co-founder of the Huntley & Palmers biscuit company, and carries Grade II listed status.
Who was George Palmer?
Palmer ran Huntley & Palmers for many years, and the firm became one of the best-known names in Reading's industrial story. He also served the town as mayor and as its Member of Parliament, roles recorded in the inscriptions on the granite plinth. The park that now holds his statue was a gift from Palmer to the people of Reading.
What will you see?
The sculptor, George Blackall Simonds, shows Palmer standing, hat and umbrella in hand. The figure rests on a granite base bearing lettering about his public offices. It is a modest monument rather than a grand landmark, but it sits comfortably among the lawns and paths of the park, so it works well as a stop on a longer stroll.
How did the statue end up here?
It was unveiled on 4 November 1891 and first stood on Broad Street in central Reading. It was relocated to Palmer Park later: most sources give 1930, while one says 1929. Since 14 December 1978 it has been a Grade II listed monument, recorded by Historic England under list entry 1113555 (the listing spells the sculptor's surname "Simmonds"). Reading Borough Council has also reported cleaning the statue in recent years.
How do you get there?
Palmer Park lies in the east of Reading, roughly 1.5 km from the town centre, at about 51.4519 N, 0.9386 W. Walking from the centre is straightforward, and local buses serve the area. The park is public, so you can see the statue whenever the park is open.
When should you visit?
Late spring and summer show the park at its greenest, and good daylight brings out the detail of the bronze and the inscriptions. Allow ten to fifteen minutes for the statue itself, longer if you want to wander the park.
Frequently asked questions
Who made the George Palmer statue? George Blackall Simonds was the sculptor.
When was it unveiled? On 4 November 1891, originally on Broad Street in Reading.
Is it a listed monument? Yes. It has been Grade II listed by Historic England since 14 December 1978.
Is there an entry fee? No. The statue stands in a public park, so viewing it is free.
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