Boulton, Watt and Murdoch Statue

The statue of Boulton, Watt and Murdoch stands on Broad Street, outside the House of Sport (former Registery Office). It is often nicknamed “The Golden Boys” or “The Carper Salesmen”. The statue was designed by William Bloye, who used to be the head of sculpture at Birmingham School of Arts. The designs were made in 1938. However, the statue was unveiled just in 1956.

The larger than life size figures are made of bronze with a gold finish. It stands on the pedestal of Portland stone. The statue was supposed to stand in frond of Planetarium, which had never been built. The statue was restored and re-gilded, and replaced in its old position in September 2006.

The three men are discussing over the engine plans. They were important figures of the industrial revolution in the 18th century. James Watt's improvements to the steam engine and William Murdoch's invention of gas lighting have made them famous throughout the world. Matthew Boulton, entrepreneur and industrialist, harnessed their talents in Soho Manufactory, a company that made everything from tableware and copper coinage to steam engines.