Samuel Stirling Fountain

The Department's description

Exterior description and setting

Granite memorial fountain located in a coloured sand cement free standing niche on the footpath of Main Street directly opposite Market Street. The structure faces south east.The structure consists of a rusticated pink granite plinth supporting a drinking trough in front of a polished pink granite memorial. The memorial is a simple form of aedicule in a turn of the century Arts and Crafts style. Two crude Tuscan pilasters support an entablature with curving head. In the head is a low relief circle containing the arms of Limavady flanked by some Celtic knotwork. Between the columns in black granite is the dedication: ‘This fountain was erected here in memory of SAMUEL STIRLING born May 16th 1838 died Dec 4th 1908. Town Commissioner 1879-1888, Town Councillor 1896-1907. He was a man who loved Limavady and always tried to protect its interests. His kindness of heart and honesty of purpose gained him the esteem of all who knew him. 1909.’ Below is a copper pipe projecting towards the trough.

Historical information

The fountain was originally erected in Main Street. It was moved to the market at the west end of the street after World War II. It was replaced in this position during the 1980s. Originally there were two drinking troughs. One for horses and another at a lower level (now gone) for dogs.

References:

Mullan T E, Limavady and the Roe Valley(1983)

Criteria for listing: architectural interest

Not listed

Criteria for listing: historic interest

Not listed

Evaluation

A small monument not helped by the crude sand/cement surround. Of interest as Limavady’s only public memorial apart from the War Memorial (HB02/12/035) on Catherine Street. It is of local historical interest reflecting the society of pre World War One Limavady. It has an architectural and geographical function marking the central focal point of the town, but it as an appropriate form for this task.