Soyer Monument Unveiled

Kensal Green Cemetery

March 30, 2009

After many years of effort to raise funds and get the project off the ground, the newly restored Soyer Monument was finally unveiled before a large crowd of well-wishers on March 30th. Under a bright blue sky, Celebrity and Michelin starred chef Raymond Blanc gave a speech celebrating the extraordinary life of Alexis Soyer. The First celebrity chef, Soyer was head chef at th Reform Club, wrote cook books, and created sauces for Crosse and Blackwell. However, he should be best remembered for his valuable work on behalf of the Army in the Crimean War, where he invented a special stove and set up feeding stations to nourish the troops, and for his attempts to help save thousands from starvation during the potato famine in Ireland. The Army Logistical Corps have recently named their new catering school after Soyer in honour of his great work on behalf of the British Army.

The monument, commemorating Soyer and his wife Elizabeth, was set up by Soyer after his wife's death in childbirth. It cost an enormous sum, and originally had an elaborate gas lamp and was surrounded by elegant foliate railings. Over the years the sculptures had become very dirty and had suffered breakages - however, they have now been beautifully restored. Money was raised by the Reform Club, with assistance from the Heritage of London Trust.

After Raymond Blanc's speech, representatives from the Reform Club, Army Logistical Corps (Catering Corps), and Jenny Freeman also made speeches. A wreath was laid and an army bugler played a salute. After the unveiling, guests decamped to the stunning library of the Reform Club in Pall Mall for drinks and canapes. Thanks must be given to HOLT friend and Reform Club member Nicholas Mellersh, who worked tirelessly to see the monument restored and organised the unveiling. We do hope this monument will be enjoyed by all those who visit the Victorian splendour of Kensal Green, and will inspire people to learn more about this interesting figure.

photos: (clockwise from top left) Raymond Blanc speaks at the unveiling; laying a wreath in memory of Soyer; detail of the restored monument