Born In 1821

September 3rd. Edward John Bannister, founder of the Bannister company, mayor, JP, philanthropist and art patron, born in Albion Street, Hull.

1835

Apprenticed to Mr Jacques to learn ornamental painting, then studied under Prof. Warren of Glasgow. He undertook a walking tour of Scotland in 1841 making numerous sketches.

1842

Attends the Society of British Artists in London but forced to return home due to illness.

1844

Paints local street scenes - Savile Street, Hull 1844, which is in Ferens Art Gallery, Hull.

1851

Lives at York Parade, Sculcoates, East Yorkshire. Works as a landscape artist.

1853

Sets up Ed Bannister and Co. and marries Amelia Wolfe.

1868 - 1869

As Mayor of Grimsby, generously donates Clock Tower in Central Market Place and the fountain in Prince Albert Gardens.

1886

He is instrumental in achieving formal accreditation for art classes to commence in Brewery Street and then in 1898, a new wing is

opened, which becomes the Silver Street School for Arts and Crafts.

1916

Edward dies and is buried in Ainslie Street Cemetery.

1977

Fountain is restored for Elizabeth II Jubilee and moved to replace the controversial bucket fountains in St James’ Square.

1996

The fountain was surveyed for Grade II listing by English Heritage.

1997

Fountain damaged by council workmen and put into storage in the basement of Nelson House (Formerly on Freeman Street).

1999

June. The fountain was given Grade II listing, but then in November was  delisted as it was no longer

on display.

2013

Fountain found in a scrapyard by Lee Brocklebank. He recognises its importance to Grimsby and purchases the fountain to save it for future generations.

2022

With the help of Lee, the Grimsby and Cleethorpes and district Civic Society take up the case of the fountain with the aim of restoring it and returning it back to Grimsby in it’s full glory!