150 Grey’s Monument - Newcastle
TOWERING 135ft over Newcastle, Earl Charles Grey’s monument overlooks a city that has seen many changes since he was Prime Minister in the middle of the 19th Century.
The Second Earl Grey, he was responsible for the abolition of African slavery, British electoral reform and introducing the refreshing tea that uses his name.
Born in 1764 at Falloden, near Embleton, Northumberland, Earl Grey was the son of a British general who had won several battles in the American Wars of Independence. He was elected as Whig MP for Northumberland at the age of only 22.
As foreign secretary in 1806 Grey carried through the abolition of the African slave trade and as Prime Minister abolished slavery throughout the British colonies.
During his term as PM, which started in 1830, his most remarkable achievement was the Reform Act of 1832, which set in train a gradual process of electoral change. It sowed the seeds of the system we recognise today.
Around 130 years of parliamentary reform began with this act and culminated in universal suffrage for men and women over 18, secret ballots and legitimate constituencies. The battle to pass the historic act was a difficult one.
Grey resigned after the Lords rejected it but he returned to office when Wellington found himself unable to form an administration. Wellington then consented and Grey was able to push the bill through.
Other reforming measures included restrictions on the employment of children and the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1833.
Despite his political achievements, his name is best known these days for Earl Grey tea. Grey was once sent a diplomatic mission to China and by chance the envoy saved the life of a Chinese Mandarin. In gratitude, the Mandarin sent Grey a specially scented tea, flavoured with oil of Bergamot. Today, Earl Grey is the world’s most popular blend of tea.
Grey’s Monument was erected in the heart of the City of Newcastle between 1837 and 1838 as a testimony to the Earl’s popularity amongst the people. You can still climb the 167 steps inside the Doric column when it occasionally opens to the public.
The monument was designed by Benjamin Green, who won a Town Commission competition for the unmistakeable piece of art.
The Earl’s statue was made by Edward Hodges Baily but the head was knocked off by lightning one stormy night during the Second World War. In 1947 local artist Roger Hedley replaced the head.
After watching the city’s thriving heavy industry disappearing, the Grey’s Monument has overseen Newcastle become a cultural destination that’s also a haven for shoppers and fun-seekers alike.