Unveiling of Darwin statue
On the 12.12.12 a crowd gathered in Beacon Park’s Museum Gardens to see the official launch of the statue of Erasmus Darwin.
Timed to take place on Darwin’s 281st birthday, the green covering on the statue was unveiled by family descendant, Christopher Darwin, and Chairman of Lichfield District Council, Councillor Ken Humphreys.
The launch event saw poetry readings, a performance by the Cathedral Choir, speeches and the grand unveiling.
Cast in bronze, the statue stands 7.5ft high. It was designed by local artist, Peter Walker, who worked in partnership with Erasmus Darwin House and volunteers on the project.
Lichfield District Council contributed £20,000 section 106 funding towards the statue and granted planning permission for it earlier in the year.
Councillor Ken Humphreys, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, said: “It was a privilege to join Christopher Darwin to do the honours and unveil this superb statue. Lots of people gathered to see the statue for the first time, and hear more about how it was created and about the great man himself. It’s a wonderful addition to the gardens and is a fine tribute to Darwin’s legacy.”