A local landmark
You can find Walton Well Drinking Fountain at the junction between Walton Well and Southmoor Roads in Jericho.
It was built in 1885 on the site of the ancient Walton Well, a spring caused by a natural dip in the landscape. The area was rural until 1880, when it began to transform into a Victorian suburb. A road and new brick houses were built over the communal source of water at Walton Well.
The plans to construct a Portland stone fountain in its place were led by William Ward. He was a coal merchant with a wharf on the nearby canal, and was twice Mayor of Oxford.
The fountain, designed by local architect Harry Moore, is an important part of Jericho's story. It commemorates the Walton Well and the area's rural past but is also a symbol of Oxford's development. William Ward's charity was intended to advertise his wealth and influence as well as providing a public amenity for the local community.
A Refreshing Restoration
140 years later, the monument is no longer a working fountain and is in urgent need of restoration.
Local resident, the late John Sutton campaigned for the repair of the drinking fountain. It featured in his book Walton Well: the Ford, the Fountain, the Foundry and the Prophet Elijah (2018). Last October, OPT got involved and launched a fundraising campaign support its restoration to full working order.
Thanks to the overwhelming support of the local community and gifts from generous donors, we're delighted to have secured enough funding to begin the first phase of the project.
We will repair the fountain's stonework, replacing the lost finial, and will install an interpretation panel exploring the site's significant role in the history of Jericho and Walton Manor. The Walton Well Drinking Fountain was originally a public resource and our work will reinstate a safe drinking water supply, providing a refillable water point on the way to Port Meadow. A new bench will create a restful space for passers-by to enjoy.
It is hoped that restoration works will be carried out during the summer and will be complete in time for the annual Oxford Open Doors weekend.
Go with the flow!
We are grateful for the support of local residents and donors, the Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Marjorie Glasgow, Lucy Group Ltd., City Councillors James Fry and Louise Upton, Oxfordshire Buildings Trust, and the CPRE Oxfordshire Buildings Preservation Trust.
We still need your contributions to complete this vital restoration project. Please join our supporters and donate below:
