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Produced and published by the School of Historical & Philosophical Studies, The University of Melbourne
Published July 2008
Published July 2008
Partners
Artist unknown
Stone drinking fountain
1912
University Square Garden, Carlton
Thomas Ferguson devoted his life to the cause of the Total Abstinence Society. The fountain's inscription reads: 'In recognition of/ faithful service rendered by/ Thomas Ferguson, Secretary Melbourne Total Abstinence Society/ 1868-1904/ ...'
The fountain was initially constructed in the centre of Russell Street opposite the Temperance Hall. It was six metres high and far more elaborate than it is today. With the rise in the use of motorcars, such street ornaments became traffic hazards and in 1947 the fountain was badly damaged when it was hit by a truck. It was later resurrected in a modified form in its current site.