Obelisk, Glasgow

The Nelson Monument in Glasgow Green park is a notable obelisk dedicated to Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson, a prominent figure in British naval history. This monument holds the distinction of being one of the earliest of its kind in the United Kingdom, commemorating Nelson's heroic death at the Battle of Trafalgar on October 21, 1805. The obelisk's foundation was ceremoniously laid on August 1, 1806, coinciding with the anniversary of the Battle of Aboukir, and was completed a year later on August 7, 1807.

Designed by the renowned architect David Hamilton, the monument soars to a height of 144 feet (44 meters) and is surrounded by cast-iron railings. It bears inscriptions on all four sides of its square plinth, with one side dedicated to Nelson's identity and lifespan, while the other three commemorate his victories at the battles of Aboukir, Copenhagen, and Trafalgar.

This monument is particularly significant as it was the first civic monument in Britain funded by public subscription to celebrate Nelson's victories. It was constructed by the mason A. Brockett. Notably, soon after its erection, the obelisk was struck by lightning, resulting in a long structural crack. This incident was captured in a painting by John Knox, currently housed in the nearby People's Palace Museum.

Additionally, in 1965, a tablet was added to honor James Watt, commemorating his reflections on Glasgow Green that led to his development of an improved steam engine. The Nelson Monument was designated as a category A listed building in 1970, cementing its status as a historic and architectural landmark in Glasgow.