Survey Data
Reg No
31804003
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Artistic, Social, Technical
Original Use
Water pump
Date
1840 - 1880
Coordinates
180140, 302879
Date Recorded
25/07/2003
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Cast-iron water pump, erected c.1860, comprising a fluted shaft, fluted domed cap with acorn finial and lion's head spout. Now disused and knob handle missing. Located on footpath at side of street with limestone flag visible underneath.
Appraisal
This water pump displays interesting design and decorative motifs. The elegant artistic detailing such as the fluted cap, acorn finial and animal head spout enliven the form of this utilitarian object and enable it to be not simply a functional object but an aesthetically pleasing piece of street furniture. Socially, water pumps were also important within a town as they provided a communal source of clean water for people in the locality and are a reminder of a bygone era.