Ilkeston is home to several historical monuments and statues that tell the story of its vibrant past. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the town's heritage, from the grand War Memorial in Market Place to the beautifully restored Victorian fountains. Explore these must-see sites as we showcase the fascinating history of Ilkeston’s iconic landmarks
In the centre of Ilkeston, in the corner of the Market Place, is the drinking fountain, horse-trough, and lamp standard, cast in 1889 and restored in 1980, and stand on a stone base with a trefoil design.
Steps lead up from the west side, while a horse trough encircles the other three sides. The hexagonal structure features a prominent east-facing element with two curving sides that extend to piers. These piers support cherubs holding urns, and between them is a gothic arch framing a relief face from which water spouts.
Angle colonnettes and trefoil caps adorned with friezes support crowns and brackets that uphold the lamp standard, which boasts a twisted column culminating in two slender square lanterns.
The war memorial, circa 1920, is constructed from ashlar stone. It is a cenotaph set upon three stone steps and is square in plan, featuring square piers at its corners. It is encircled by twelve tapering stone piers linked by wrought iron railings.
The cenotaph itself boasts a chamfered plinth and a rectangular base with a chamfered top, surmounted by a rectangular pier with notched corners and a stepped top.
The base is adorned with the relief inscription “OUR/GLORIOUS/DEAD” on its north and south faces, and inset metal panels on the east and west sides bear the names of the Ilkeston men who fell in the two World Wars. On the west side of the pier is a wreath, while the east side features a chamfered cross.
Samuel Taylor, known as “The Ilkeston Giant,” was a remarkable figure born in 1816 in Little Hallam, Ilkeston. Standing at an astonishing 7 feet 4 inches tall, Taylor faced unique challenges finding work due to his height.
In his teenage years, his life took a turn when he was employed by a showman to perform as a “giant” attraction. Taylor journeyed extensively, showcasing at fairs throughout England, and eventually married his employer’s daughter, a glassblower by profession.
Despite facing challenges and undergoing various career shifts, including a short period as a pub owner, Taylor persisted in performing, garnering a dedicated fanbase and earning the status of a local legend.
Taylor received a grand funeral procession in Ilkeston, and his gravesite continues to be a site of interest at Stanton Road Cemetery. A memorial statue of Taylor was refurbished in 2008 to honor his legacy.
Know Before You Go
The cemetery also has the grave of a famous cricketer, James Tilson. The headstone has depictions of a cricket ball and wicket keepers glove and a set of stumps.
