‘Sir Sydney Waterlow should be better known’, says descendant of Highgate philanthropist
Sir Sydney Waterlow - Credit: Archant
A descendent of a Highgate philanthropist who gave away most of his estate to the people of London has welcomed plans to mark a landmark anniversary.
Sir Christopher Waterlow said his great-great-great-great grandfather, Sir Sydney Waterlow, is not as well known as he should be.
Sir Sydney donated Waterlow Park to the public as a “garden for the gardenless”, and it opened in 1891.
The 125th anniversary is being marked this year, and Sir Christopher yesterday launched a programme of summer talks for primary school pupils.
He told the Ham&High: “It’s wonderful that it’s being celebrated, it’s only in the last 10 years that I’ve come to appreciate what kind of a man Sydney was.
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“He was an amazing philanthropist.
“I think that people who know his work appreciate everything he did, but I don’t think he’s been publicised enough.”
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He said he is delighted to see the tireless work of volunteers to maintain the park, and also the current refurbishment at Lauderdale House, in the park’s grounds.
He said: “It’s wonderful, I think Sydney would have been proud of what’s happening there today.”
Events are being held over the summer to mark the anniversary, including a performance by Japanese pianist Masayuki Tayama on June 26, and a traditional village fete on September 17, similar to the park’s opening event in 1891.