Fanny Wilkinson was a trailblazer in the field of landscape gardening and women’s rights in London during the late 19th century. Born near Manchester in 1855, she graduated from the Crystal Palace School of Landscape Gardening and Practical Horticulture in 1883, becoming the only woman in her class. Despite the male-dominated industry, Wilkinson quickly made a name for herself by designing at least 75 public gardens across London.
One of her notable achievements was the design of the gardens in Red Lion Square, a historic location in London near Holborn station. This square has a rich history dating back to its creation in 1684 by Nicholas Barbon, a prominent property developer. Over the years, Red Lion Square has been associated with various events, including housing the remains of Oliver Cromwell and being the site of a clash between political groups in 1974.
Wilkinson’s contribution to Red Lion Square’s landscape was honored with the unveiling of a memorial stone by actor Tim McInnerny, organized by the Friends of Red Lion Square Gardens. This event highlighted Wilkinson’s lasting impact on London’s green spaces and recognized her as a remarkable woman and Londoner.
In addition to her work in Red Lion Square, Wilkinson designed gardens in other parts of London, such as Goldsmith Square in Hackney, Myatt’s Fields Park in Camberwell, and Vauxhall Park, which opened in 1890. Her influence extended beyond her designs, as she was actively involved in promoting the creation of new public spaces in the city.
The dedication ceremony in Red Lion Square brought together local residents, community members, and supporters of Wilkinson’s work. The event was a fitting tribute to a pioneering woman who played a significant role in shaping London’s urban environment and advocating for women’s rights in a male-dominated profession.
To learn more about Fanny Wilkinson and her impact on London’s public gardens, you can listen to the London Society podcast featuring insights from individuals like Patricia Wager and Sarah Wood. The event was funded by the Central District Alliance BID and supported by organizations like the Friends of Red Lion Square Gardens, highlighting the ongoing efforts to preserve Wilkinson’s legacy and celebrate her contributions to the city.
