Bedford
Trade and Inductry
Visit of Garibaldi to the Britannia Iron Works, 1864

Places > Bedford > Trade and Industry > Britannia Iron Works

Early in April it was ascertained that General Garibaldi would visit the Britannia Iron Works. A requisition was presented to the late Mr. James Howard, Mayor of Bedford, requesting him to call a public meeting to consider the best means of welcoming the illustrious stranger. A meeting was held, and a suitable reception agreed upon, but there were only two days for the preparations. However, the principal streets were decorated. Garibaldi's desire was to inspect the process of ploughing by steam. The Britannia Iron Works were appropriately decorated, and a platform erected at the railway siding running from the Midland line. Soon after I I a.m. a special train drew up, and Garibaldi alighted amidst deafening cheers. He inspected the Works, inscribed his name in the Visitors' Book, and planted a tree as a memento of his visit. The tree, a Sequoia, is still growing on the lawn. After receiving an address from the Corporation and inhabitants, Garibaldi proceeded to Clapham Park Farm, to witness the steam ploughing; Mr. James Howard giving the explanations. The visit was considered an extremely important event, and the London papers published extensive reports. The Bedfordshire Times issued a special edition in honour of the occasion.

Extract from: J. Hamson, Bedford Town and Townsmen 1845-1895, Bedfordshire Times, 1896

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