New Iron Totem Pole Geddington Brickyard Garden (GBG) unveiled its new Iron Totem Pole during its Summer Open Day on 26th June. The amazing iron sculpture was designed and created by Geddington resident Dave McAlwane of Mac Iron Works, who donated hundreds of hours of voluntary, skilled time to the project. The Iron Totem Pole celebrates the creativity of Geddington’s local community, past and present, and now stands proudly at the entrance to the community garden.
The story starts with five heavy bags of old iron dug up at the GBG site during this project’s development. Some iron artefacts appeared to be hand-forged and may have been 100 years old. GBG and Dave McAlwane discussed the possibility of using the ‘old iron’ to maintain the history of the GBG site. The result was a ‘box-kite’ structure that would also incorporate 24 wrought iron panels designed by Geddington School children.
Each detailed panel shows aspects of village life as drawn by the children. Look carefully and you can see the bridge, the church, Queen Eleanor Cross, Boughton Estate logo and so much more.
With the help of many volunteers, the three-metre pole was transported to the site, raised onto its plinth and wrapped in cloth until it was unveiled by Mark Rowley amid much applause. All are welcome to visit Geddington Brickyard Garden, which is some 200 m along public byway at end of Wood Street, to see the structure for yourselves. Please feel free to go into the GBG wooden shed where you can have a go at the Iron Totem Pole Quiz and other drawing activities. Dave McAlwane continues to fulfil his passion for creative ironwork and, with his son Daniel, has formed Mac Iron Works which offers bespoke wrought iron metal work, from gates, fence panels, garden arches to quirky wine racks made from horse shoes. Dave or Daniel can be contacted for a free survey/quotation on 07470 056282, 07770 516150 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
GBG also wishes to thank Kensigns Ltd, Kettering, who designed and donated the commemorative plaque, and Pam Hopkins who supplied the photos.
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