Joseph Chamberlain: Exploring his Legacy
08.2020
With the help of the Beatfreeks-led project ‘Don’t Settle’ we will be recruiting a team to carry out research into Chamberlain’s links to the Jewellery Quarter and his role on the global stage, particularly his position as Secretary of State for the Colonies. This research will inform the text for a new interpretation panel which will be located at the site of the Chamberlain Clock. The research carried out will also be available on this page.
Our Commitment
Joseph Chamberlain is hailed for being largely responsible for the fast-paced modernisation of the city whilst Mayor of Birmingham between 1873 – 76. Many locations and landmarks in the city are dedicated to him, including the Jewellery Quarter’s Chamberlain Clock.
First unveiled in 1904, the Clock commemorates Chamberlain’s visit to South Africa following the end of the Boer War. Chamberlain’s role as Secretary of State for the Colonies and his involvement in the British Empire is not as widely discussed, so through this project we commit to working with partner organisations and historians to further research this side of the story, to explore the impact and legacy of his colonial activity and to consult with communities about how these stories are told.
We will ensure that balanced, representative and accurate research is shared through new, permanent interpretation at the site of the Clock, our project website and other channels.
This pledge is electronically signed by the Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District and Jewellery Quarter Townscape Heritage Project.
Further information
This project investigates the history and significance of the Chamberlain Clock and the life of Joseph Chamberlain, as well as the life and legacy of Warrulan; an Aboriginal Australian who is buried in the Jewellery Quarter. We focus on telling balanced narratives and including the diverse voices of our fantastic city of Birmingham.
The Chamberlain ClockAfter being restored, the clock is to return to its home in the Jewellery Quarter on 20th and 21st March.