Sir Robert Peel in Peel Park

.Go through the main entrance of Peel Park in Bolton Road and turn right towards the duck pond and towards the promenade.

ROBERT PEEL (1788-1850)

unveiled 6th November 1855 by Aldertnan William Murgatroyd, Mayor of Bradford Sculptor. William Behnes (I 795-1864)

This statue of Peel originally stood in front of Peel Place, now modem Petergate, and it was the first statue erected in Bradford. William Behnes was also one of the most popular sculptors of his day, with two other versions of Peel in Leeds (1852) and Hendon, London (1855).

Sir Robert Peel is perhaps best known for his introduction of the first form of modern policing with the creation of the Metropolitan Police Force in 1829, originally known as Peelers. However, from Bradford's point of view, his advocacy of the Free Trade Policy led to the expansion of trade and prosperity for Bradford's merchants and the city as a whole. In recognition of their debt to Peel, money was raised by public subscription for a commemorative memorial. On the day of the unveiling, the town was given a holiday and a gala celebration was held in Peel Park which included a bonfire and fireworks display.

Peel stands an impressive 11'6" high on a massive drum of Bramley stone, approximately 13 feet high. The bronze figure holds a Bill of Parliament in one hand and has a pile of books behind him on a small draped pillar. The bronze founders name can be seen on the base of the bronze on Peel's right, Robinson & Coffon, Pimlico, London, and the sculptor's signature on the front base.

William Behnes was born in London. His father was a German musical instrument maker, but his mother was English. Fairly early on, Behnes showed a talent for painting and in 1813 joined the Royal Academy School of Art where he won silver medals in 1816-19 and in 1819 the Society of Arts gold medal for inventing an instrument for transferring points from a sculptors model to marble. His first exhibit at the Royal Academy was in 1815 and success swiftly followed. He was particularly successful with busts and reliefs and in 1837 was appointed Sculptor in Ordinary to Queen Victoria.