Marquess of Anglesey's Column

The Marquess of Anglesey’s Column stands on a rocky outcrop near Llanfairpwllgwyngyll on Anglesey, overlooking the Menai Strait. A Doric column of 27 metres, it was designed by Thomas Harrison and completed in 1817. At its summit is a brass statue of Henry William Paget, first Marquess of Anglesey, who led the British cavalry in the Peninsular War and fought at Waterloo. The foundation stone bears an inscription in English, Welsh and Latin, recording Paget’s service and Harrison’s role as architect. The column sits close to Plas Newydd, the marquess’s country house, and its base rests on ancient blueschist rock formed from metamorphosed lavas. Paget’s military career is recalled in a famous exchange at Waterloo. When a cannonball struck his leg, he told the Duke of Wellington, “By God, sir, I’ve lost my leg!” Wellington replied, “By God, sir, so you have!” The marquess later wore the first articulated wooden leg. The site also holds geological importance, with the blueschist rock among the oldest known examples and designated a Geological Site of Special Scientific Interest within the GeoMôn UNESCO Global Geopark. Visitors once climbed 115 steps to the viewing platform, but the tower has been closed for safety. Plans now include repairs, a visitor centre in the keeper’s cottage, and a new viewing platform for disabled access. The Anglesey Column Trust has secured grants to restore the monument and improve the surroundings, aiming to reopen the column and create jobs.