Grey’s Monument has been a mainstay of the city centre for generations now, and remains a meeting point and speakers corner to this day. Built in 1838, the site is nearly 200 years old and is a grade I listed monument to commemorate Charles Grey, Britain’s prime minster between 1830 and 1834. The monument is a single pillar with 164 steps to reach the top.
The monument is located on the junction of Grey, Grainger and Blackett Street bang in the centre of town and was built in recognition of Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey.
Earl Grey represented Northumberland in Parliament from the age of 22 and in 1830 was invited to form a government and become Prime Minister. The monument also celebrates the Great Reform Act which Grey brought about. The act extended the right to vote.
1. 1900
Looking down Grey Street from Greys Monument in 1900. | NL
2. 1911
A view of Blackett Street decorated for the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. It is a busy street scene with a variety of horse-drawn vehicles travelling along the road. In the foreground two boys are pushing a cart. The buildings on the left include 'Northern Goldsmiths' and 'Lipton'. Grey's Monument and the YMCA building can be seen in the distance. | NL Photo: Newcastle Libraries
3. 2020
A view looking down Blackett Street towards Grey's Monument and the entrance to Eldon Square. Taken in May 2020 during the Coronavirus pandemic. | nl Photo: Liam Bentley
4. c1860
Grey Street looking towards the Monument in the 19th century. | NL Photo: Newcastle Libraries