Picture of Leeds Firemans Memorial at St Georges Fields Leeds.
The Leeds firemans memorial is located in St Georges Fields on the Leeds University campus.
Why is a Victorian memorial to fallen firemen on the Uni campus. This area of the campus was originally a Cemetery, the Leeds General Cemetery Company opened it in 1833. After the last internments in the 1970’s the cemetery closed and the university landscaped the grounds and moved many of the memorials. Today on a sunny day many students can be seen sitting or lying on the grass perhaps reading or just relaxing.
The memorial commemorates Leeds firemen who died in fires, the words on are as follows…
Firemans Memorial
“Always Ready”
In memory of
James Potter Schofield, Who fell at his post, Leeds joint station fire January 13 1892, aged 43.
R W Horney, fireman died Feb 8 1896, aged 28 years.
Joseph Ellis, died March 30 1897, aged 31.
Herbert Storey, killed in the execution of his duty Feby 24th 1909, aged 32.
In the days before radios, breathing apparatus and health and safety these men and many like them entered burning buildings to save life at no little risk to themselves. My uncle Sid was for many years a fireman and latterly a fire officer in London, though he is now long retired. I have the utmost respect for anyone prepared to put their life on the line to save others. Some would say it is just a job and they knew the risks when they joined. In my book they and those like them are heroes.
I will post some more about the Leeds General Cemetery tomorrow.
Leedsdailyphoto.com 