It is easy to walk past this quirky piece of Cambridge history without even realising
Dogs are much-loved pets by families right across the world, with their loyalty and friendliness often seeing them referred to as ‘man’s best friend’. It’s this treasured companionship that can make losing a dog so difficult.
Many dog owners will remember their beloved pet with photographs and urns. But one former Cambridge University student decided to take it one step further and create a long-lasting memorial for his dog called Tony. Located at Mitcham’s Corner in Cambridge, it is easy to walk straight past.
The shrine, made of granite, is surrounded by low hedges on three of its sides. Positioned near The Portland Arms, its appearance looks like a trough, with a rectangular shape cut out of the top to collect rainwater for dogs to drink.
The inscription reads: “1934. In memory of Tony a dog who gave him friendship and happiness during his Cambridge years. This trough is erected by his royal highness Prince Chula of Siam”.
The prince was Chula Chakrabongse of Siam (now Thailand), who studied history at Trinity College. Tony was his companion while he was a student but sadly died after the prince left the city.
Prince Chula provided the money and instructions to Cambridge City Council for the memorial to be installed. A Town Planning Committee report from June 13, 1933, said: “The Committee further considered an offer received from HRH Prince Chula of Siam of a water trough for animals to be placed near Trinity Backs or Milton Road and, in connection therewith, the Town Clerk submitted a letter from the local inspector of the RSPCA intimating that his association fully supported the erection of such a trough.
“Resolved that the offer of HRH Prince Chula of Siam of a water trough for dogs be accepted with the best thanks of the council; that it be suggested that the trough should be a small one for dogs only and further that the water trough be placed at the junction of Milton Road and Chesterton Road, near the Police Box.”
It seems that everyone has a soft spot for man’s best friend, even an alumnus of one of the world’s top universities.
