Two of Stroud’s historical landmarks linked to the slave trade and its abolition have been joined together by new walking routes.
An information plaque outlining the history of the Blackboy Clock and statue has been installed outside Blackboy House in Castle Street, Stroud and features a map marking out two walking routes between the statue and the Anti-Slavery Arch in Paganhill.
The new plaque coincides with the restoration of the Anti-Slavery Arch in Paganhill, which was built in 1834 to commemorate the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1833.
Blackboy Clock and statue was made at the height of the Transatlantic slave trade and has been located on several buildings in Stroud before being moved to Blackboy House, where it remains today.
Taskforce Chair Sabrina Pace-Humphreys said: “As a Taskforce we considered many different options of how to approach the plaque, and we believe the final version provides important context for Blackboy Clock and statue and it offers a new perspective by linking the Clock with the Anti-Slavery Arch via two suggested walking routes.”
Taskforce member Dan Guthrie said: “Myself and my fellow Taskforce members hope that this plaque provides a greater context for the history of the Blackboy Clock at street level where previously there was no information available. The plaque going up is a step forward in what we feel is the right direction for what should happen with this item of public statuary in our district but is certainly not the end of what continues to be an ongoing conversation.”
The Taskforce was established following a 2021 review across the Stroud district, which consulted with the community on any street and building names, statues and architectural features that may be considered offensive, including Blackboy Clock and Statue. This review received more than 1,600 responses, with 78% of respondents saying the clock and statue should be removed. However the clock and statue is in private ownership, so the Council does not have any legal authority to remove them. However, the Council continues to explore the possibility of moving them.
SDC Leader, Catherine Braun added: “It is hoped that the plaque and the suggested walks will encourage conversations about the district’s history, its involvement in the Transatlantic slave trade, and the systemic issues of racial injustice and discrimination that continue to face people from many different backgrounds.”
The Anti-Slavery Arch in Paganhill is the UK’s oldest anti-slavery memorial. It is owned by Stroud District Council which has commissioned £42,000-worth of stone repairs and cleaning, which is expected to be completed next month.
