A life-size statue of Ebenezer Howard, the founder of Letchworth Garden City, has been installed in the grounds of the Spirella Building.
The bronze statue was sculpted by local Letchworth businessman, Peter Colvin, who donated it to the Heritage Foundation. Measuring eight feet tall, and weighing almost a tonne, the work commemorates the important contribution made by social reformer, Ebenezer Howard, in establishing Letchworth as the world’s first Garden City in 1903.
Mr Colvin commented: “I have no formal training in sculpture work, though after studying osteopathy and having lived and practised locally in Hitchin and Letchworth for 35 years, I developed an interest in the human form. I have always wanted to make a big bronze of an iconic figure and Ebenezer Howard was my first choice. I’m thrilled to see the work situated at Spirella; one of Letchworth’s most iconic buildings.”
Pam Burn, Chair of Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation, commented: “We are very grateful to receive this generous donation from Mr Colvin and are pleased to present the sculpture prominently in the town for the community to enjoy. Visitors can see the statue in the grounds of Spirella or during one of the Heritage Foundation walking tours and can discover references famous to Letchworth in the work, such as black squirrels and Garden Cities across the world inspired by Ebenezer Howard.”
To book a walking tour, contact 01462 530350.
