Statute of Peace
Friary Park
For several years the Finchley Society has been erecting plaques at local features so that residents and visitors can better understand the heritage of the area. Saturday June 18 was Civic Day, and Councillor David Longstaff, the Mayor of Barnet, unveiled Society’s the latest plaque beside the Statue of Peace in Friary Park.
The “Statue of Peace” has stood in the Park since 1911. It is dedicated to King Edward VII but very few people know anything about it because there is no information board near the statue. The Society’s plaque gives details of Joseph Durham, the well-known Victorian sculptor; of the part played by Sydney Simmons, whose generous donation led to the creation of the park; and explains the tragic event on May 7 1910 that inspired the statue. In addition to Barnet’s Mayor, many local residents, groups and councillors will gather at 11.00 am to witness the unveiling.
You can see photos of the ceremony here.