Huskisson Mausoleum

A round tower, the design of which was adapted from that of the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens. The architect, John Foster, was also responsible for the overall design of the cemetery. The mausoleum formerly contained a statue of Huskisson carved by the sculptor John Gibson in 1831-2.

Architect

John Foster

Style

Listing

Grade II (England and Wales)

Year built

1834

History

William Huskisson (1770-1830) was partly brought up in Paris and, as a young man, was present during the French Revolution and fall of the Bastille. An extremely able mathematician, he became a prominent representative of mercantile interests in parliament, rising to be President of the Board of Trade. Even so, the success he achieved in public life did not match his rare abilities. Lord Melbourne said he was “the greatest practical statesmen he had known, the one who best united theory with practice”. He seems to have been hampered by an unattractive appearance and a certain awkwardness. Indeed his lack of physical coordination appears to have led to the accident that caused his death at the opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway, when he fell under the wheels of a train. His mausoleum was built in Liverpool, the city for which he was MP.

Condition

Condition is generally good but entrance doorway has suffered recent damage. The stonework around the entrance has moved and some blocks are displaced. Much growth of plants on the upper lantern area. The interior looks neglected. In need of some repair work and general maintenance. (6 July 2022)