Hidden Henley

INSTALLED in 1788 in the old market place in front of the town hall, the obelisk, which is now in Mill Meadows, once had lamps mounted on arms on each side, was inscribed with distances to London, Oxford and Reading and also incorporated a pump for washing the street. It was replaced in 1885 by an ornamental drinking facility, The Phillimore Fountain, despite objections as recorded on the current information board quoting: “It would be an impossibility for a fast driver of a pony and trap from Duke Street to turn with safety”. Perhaps the 20mph speed limit should have been introduced then!