A historic drinking fountain in Nailsworth has been restored by specialist contractors on behalf of Stroud District Council.
Using an advanced steam-based stone cleaning system, the restoration team removed accumulated dirt and grime at high temperatures while ensuring the structure remained unharmed.
Erected in 1862, the eponymous monument on Fountain Street serves as a memorial to local solicitor William Smith, who worked throughout his life to improve the supply of drinking water in Nailsworth. It bears the inscription “This fountain was erected in 1862 as a memorial of the late William Smith Esquire of this village by those who admired his character and deplored his removal from them by a sudden death September 29 1861 at the age of 53 years”.
Constructed of Cotswold limestone with additions of grey and buff sandstone, pink granite and white marble, the fountain is an exceptional example of Victorian Gothic architecture. It stands approximately four metres tall on a hexagonal base, topped with a crocketed spirelet capped by a poppyhead.
The fountain has been relocated several times within Nailsworth, finally returning close to its original site in 2009 after a campaign by former mayor and district councillor, the late Norman Kay.
History of the Nailsworth Fountain
1862 Erected in memory of William Smith
1938 Moved to Old Market
1963 Relocated a few metres to accommodate road widening
2002 Vandals removed the top of the pinnacle
2009 Returned to its original location
2025 Fountain cleaned
