Just as one historical figure has found a new home at Gloucester Guildhall, ed another could be set to leave.
Earlier in the month a small statue of German philosopher Karl Marx, buy gifted to Gloucester by its twin city Trier (where Marx was born), was put on display at the Guildhall. Now a little-known carving of Siege of Gloucester commander Colonel Edward Massey, which has been hidden away in a small studio room at the entertainment venue, will soon be on the move to the City Museum.
In the Siege of Gloucester during the English Civil War in 1643 Colonel Massey, as a 23 year old, commanded a parliamentary garrison which successfully defended the city from the overwhelming royalist forces of King Charles I. He went on to become Member of Parliament for Gloucester and Governor of Jamaica.
An extensive wood carving, depicting the Colonel, and consisting of three pieces, is currently located out of sight at the Guildhall. It has been there since August 2001.
Gloucester City Council is planning to move the carving to be on display later this year.
In the meantime, members of the public will be able to go along and view the carving during heritage weekends.
Cllr Paul James, Leader of Gloucester City Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Culture said: “Colonel Massey is one of the city’s iconic figures who helped to shape Gloucester’s and indeed our nation’s history. By holding out against much larger forces, he demonstrated the true spirit of Gloucester which has served the city well for centuries.
“This carving is a beautiful piece of work so it’s only right that as many people as possible can see it for themselves.
“I’d encourage anyone who is interested to pop along and have a look once the carving is in its new home.”
