'We would encourage the erection of handsome monuments, and the inscription on them of moral sentiments, the former to improve the taste, and the latter to cultivate the heart and affections. In both we would allow individual taste to be displayed; [...].
John Claudius Loudon, 1843; On the laying out, planting, and managing of Cemeteries, and on the improvement of Churchyards.
The inscription reads 'A dearly loved husband and father' as well as his wife and the youngest of their daughters.
But more than this , here we have the grave of Henry Peach Robinson, influential and controversial photographer. [1830-1901]. He had a studio in the Great Hall in Tunbridge Wells and as well as portraits, cabinet cards and carte de visite he produced early forms of photo-montage including his famous 'Fading Away'. Much of his work was bought by Prince Albert.
In terms of image though, this tombstone was designed by Peach Robinson himself and is a copy of his front door in Queens Road, Tunbridge Wells. Victorian symbolism uses doors to depict a gateway to eternal life. Immortality then for this important recorder of Victorian people and composer of works of photographic art which in its time was ground-breaking.
Friends Groups for Tunbridge Wells Cemetery at Hawkenbury Link Here
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