When the Rev. William Scott Southgate died in 1899, a two-year effort was launched by Annapolis residents to honor the longtime pastor of St. Anne?s Episcopal Church.
“He was a minister very highly regarded in the community, and when he died, the City Council raised private funds to build a fountain in his name,” said Alderman Richard Israel, D-Ward 1.
More than a century later, his memorial fountain stands dry, deteriorated and unassuming on the northeast edge of Church Circle between St. Anne?s Church, the post office and the Governor?s Mansion.
But efforts are under way to restore the fountain and return flowing water to celebrate Annapolis? 300th anniversary next year, including a fundraising committee led by Israel.
“The plan is to recreate the dedication ceremony back [in 1901],” said Lily Openshaw, special events manager for Annapolis? Public Works Department.
The fountain will be rededicated in May and will feature children?s choirs and other churches joining in the celebration, just as they did in 1901.
The fountain?s water was turned off because it wasted water and contributed to polluting the Chesapeake Bay, Openshaw said.
The fountain will be fitted with a small motor to pump water that it will recycle.
The project cost was not disclosed because a contract has not been signed.
Openshaw said the limestone in the fountain is soft and may need extra care while cleaning.
Possible archeological discoveries during construction may drive up costs, too, she added.
In keeping with the 1901 theme, the project is being completely funded through private donations, Israel said. The state will provide electricity via underground wires from the nearby state Senate building.
Annapolis Mayor Ellen Moyer campaigned for the fountain?s revitalization, calling it “a landmark in our community” in a news release. Moyer could not be reached for comment, as she is vacationing in Europe.
“We?re trying to recognize the diversity of the community and recognize it also existed in [Southgate?s] day,” Israel said.
The Rev. William Scott Southgate
» Born: April 10, 1831
» Died: May 21, 1899
» Notables: Opened a mission in Annapolis in 1874 focusing on the black community; served as rector of St. Anne?s Episcopal Church for 30 years; wanted to build a fountain to provide water for horses and passersby
