Exploring the Charles Kingsley Statue and its Significance in Bideford’s History

The Charles Kingsley statue in Bideford, North Devon, is a bronze statue of the famous author and clergyman, Charles Kingsley, that stands on the Quay overlooking the River Torridge. 

Kingsley was born in Devon in 1819 and went on to become a prominent figure in Victorian literature and the Church of England. He is best known for his novels, including “Westward Ho!”, which is set in Bideford and the surrounding area. 

The book is named after the town’s cry, which was used to recruit sailors for the Elizabethan adventurer, Sir Walter Raleigh.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Charles Kingsley statue is a bronze statue in Bideford

Kingsley was born in Devon and was a prominent figure in Victorian literature and the Church of England

The statue was created by John Cassidy and was unveiled in 1910

The statue is located on the Quay, a picturesque area of Bideford with a rich history

Bideford has many other attractions, including historic buildings, museums, and art galleries

The statue serves as a reminder of the importance of literature and the arts, and their ability to inspire people across generations

The Statue

The statue was created by the sculptor, John Cassidy, and was unveiled in 1910. It features Kingsley standing in a relaxed pose, with his hands in his pockets, and is inscribed with the words “Charles Kingsley, 1819-1875, author and divine”. 

The statue serves as a reminder of Kingsley’s literary legacy and his connection to the area.

About Charles Kingsley

Kingsley was not only an author but also a social reformer and a keen naturalist. He was a supporter of Darwin’s theory of evolution and was also an advocate for the working classes and the protection of the natural environment. 

Kingsley was also an active member of the Church of England, and his work as a clergyman often informed his writing.

Charles Kingsley wrote a variety of books, including novels, non-fiction, and children’s books. Some of his notable works include:

• “Westward Ho!” (1855)
• “Hypatia” (1853)
• “Two Years Ago” (1857)
• “The Water-Babies” (1863)
• “Hereward the Wake” (1866)
• “At Last: A Christmas in the West Indies” (1871)

In addition to his fiction work, Kingsley also wrote non-fiction books on social and political issues, such as “Yeast: A Problem” (1848) and “The Water of Life and Other Sermons” (1869).

Importance of Kingsley Statue

The Charles Kingsley statue is an important landmark in Bideford and a popular attraction for visitors to the town. It is located on the Quay, which is a picturesque area of the town that has a rich history. 

The Quay has been an important part of Bideford’s economy for centuries, serving as a port for ships trading with America and the West Indies. Today, the Quay is a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and is a popular spot for leisurely walks and sightseeing.

Visitors to Bideford can explore the town’s other attractions, including its historic buildings, museums, and art galleries. The town is also known for its beautiful scenery, with the River Torridge providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks and outdoor activities.

Who was Charles Kingsley Video

In the video below, discover more about Charles Kingsley from Oxford Academic (Oxford University Press)

A summary of this video is below:

• Charles Kingsley was a central Victorian figure and held various prestigious positions
• He was also one of the most eccentric and contradictory figures of the 19th century
• Kingsley was particularly obsessed with water and cleanliness
• He supported sanitation reform and aimed to improve public health
• Personal aspects of his life revealed unusual interest in cleanliness
• For Kingsley, cleanliness was a way to prove moral and spiritual purity
• His most famous story, ‘The Water Babies,’ illustrates the transformative power of water and cleanliness

And Finally

The Charles Kingsley statue is an important landmark in Bideford and a testament to the literary legacy of Charles Kingsley. The statue serves as a reminder of the importance of literature and the arts, and their ability to inspire and inform people across generations. 

Visitors to Bideford can explore the town’s other attractions and enjoy its beautiful scenery, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Statue

Q: Who is Charles Kingsley and what is his connection to Bideford?
A: Charles Kingsley was a British clergyman and writer who wrote the best-selling novel “Westward Ho!” in 1855. He lived in Bideford while writing the book, and used the town as the setting for the story. The popularity of the book brought tourists to Bideford and helped establish the town’s tourist industry.

Q: Where was Charles Kingsley born and where did he live?
A: Charles Kingsley was born in Holne Vicarage, Devon, England in 1819. He spent his childhood in Clovelly, Devon where his father was rector from 1830-6. He lived in various places throughout his life including Bideford while writing “Westward Ho!” and Eversley, Hampshire where he died in 1875.

Q: Where is Charles Kingsley buried?
A: Charles Kingsley died of pneumonia on January 23, 1875 at Eversley, Hampshire and was buried in St. Mary’s Churchyard.

Q: What is the Charles Kingsley statue in Bideford?
A: The Charles Kingsley statue in Bideford is a bronze sculpture of the author holding a book and looking out to sea. It was unveiled in 1903 to commemorate his life and work in Bideford.

Q: Why is Charles Kingsley significant to Bideford?
A: Charles Kingsley’s best-selling novel “Westward Ho!” put Bideford on the map as a tourist destination and helped establish the town’s tourist industry. He also served as a rector at St. Mary’s Church and was a prominent figure in the town’s history.

Q: What was Charles Kingsley’s occupation?
A: Charles Kingsley was an Anglican clergyman and writer who wrote a variety of fiction, including social-problem novels, historical romances, and children’s literature.

Q: Where is the Charles Kingsley statue in Bideford located?
A: The Charles Kingsley statue is located in The Quay, Bideford, Devon, EX39 2EZ, United Kingdom. It is situated near the Long Bridge and overlooks the River Torridge.