First stone laid for the Clarkson Memorial in Wisbech

Background. The memorial commemorates Thomas Clarkson, an English abolitionist born in Wisbech in 1760. He was a leading campaigner against the slave trade in the British Empire. The town of Wisbech, located in Cambridgeshire, is an inland port and market town. Clarkson's local connection and his significant role in the abolitionist movement provided the context for the erection of this monument in his honor.

Construction and Design. Work on the memorial began in October 1880. The location was chosen for its central position within the town. The memorial consists of a statue mounted on a high platform. It was erected between 1880 and 1881 and is a Grade II* listed building. The construction phase specifically covers the laying of the first stone and the initial work on the structure.

Commemoration. The memorial was erected to commemorate the life and work of Thomas Clarkson. Clarkson was a central figure in the campaign against the slave trade. The monument serves as a physical tribute to his contributions to the abolitionist movement and his status as a former native of Wisbech. The event marks the beginning of this commemorative structure's physical existence.