Erection date: 17/3/1937
Coronation Planting Committee
This fig-tree was given and planted on St. Patrick's Day 1937 by Sir Evan Spicer, DL, to commemorate the crowning of King George VI.
Arthur G. B. West - Rector
This plaque was planned during turbulent times in the royal-watching community. Here's the time-line: 20 January 1936, George V died and Edward ascended the throne as King Edward VIII. 10 December 1936, Edward abdicated. 17 March 1937 fig tree planted. 12 May 1937 coronation of King George VI on the date previously intended for Edward's coronation.
One wonders how the St Dunstans plaque erectors felt when they heard the news on 10 December, with the fig tree on order for 17 March, and a plaque commemorating the coronation of King Edward VIII all ready to go. See the plaque at the City of London School for a plaque committee with an even worse tale of woe to tell.
Site: St Dunstan's in the East (3 memorials)
EC3, St Dunstan's Hill, St Dunstan's in the East Garden
These three plaques are on the south side of the south wall of the ruined church. Our photo shows all three plaques, left to right: fig tree; Gyle-Thomson; garden.
Built c. 1100 this church was severely damaged in the 1666 Great Fire. It was patched up and a Wren-designed tower and steeple was added. 1817-21 the church was rebuilt, retaining the Wren tower and steeple. The church was very badly damaged in the 1941 Blitz, though the tower and steeple survived. It was decided not to rebuild, but to turn the site into a garden amongst the ruins. The public garden opened in 1971 and is, 2020, a truly delightful place to each your sandwiches, or shot your fashion photos as happened on one of our visits.
