The hollow cast bronze statue of Lieutenant Colonel Robert Duckenfield by Escar UK Bronze is the final of six statues commissioned by the Greater Manchester Council of Tameside, in the North of England
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Duckenfield, the celebrated 17th century soldier and politician, can be found opposite the entrance to Town Hall, Dukinfield, Tameside, in the centre of the seating area on the King Street side
On Sunday, April 1st 2007, the streets of Dukinfield resonated once again with the sound of Roundhead boots
With standards flying and drums beating, soldiers from Colonel Edward Montagu’s Regiment of Foote, an English Civil War re-enactment group, performed a colorful march past during the unveiling ceremony
Councillor Jackie Lane said she felt proud to be revealing the tribute. “As a Dukinfield Councillor and a native of the town, I feel honoured to be unveiling this statue of Colonel Duckenfield”
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Duckenfield, born in 1619, is a celebrated figure in English military history, renowned for his exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment to duty
His contributions to the military and political spheres during one of England’s most turbulent eras continues to be remembered and celebrated, and Escar UK Bronze are proud to have been chosen for the commissioning of the statue that now resides in his honour, in King Street, Dukinfield, Greater Manchester
Duckenfield’s legacy is one of remarkable influence, both on the battlefield and within the political landscape of 17th-century England, and his military career flourished during a period of intense civil strife and political turmoil
As a dedicated officer in the Parliamentary Army during the English Civil War, he distinguished himself through his strategic brilliance and unwavering resolve and his leadership was pivotal in numerous engagements, most notably the Siege of Chester in 1645 and also commanded the forces that capture the Isle of Man
During these critical confrontations, Duckenfield’s decisive tactics and unyielding perseverance played a crucial role in securing a Parliamentarian victory, cementing his reputation as a formidable military commander
In 1650 he was made the Governor of Chester
Beyond his military exploits, Duckenfield’s impact extended into the political arena
His commitment to the Parliamentary cause and his efforts to uphold the principles of the Commonwealth, were instrumental in shaping the course of English history and his influence was felt not only in his immediate actions, but also in the enduring legacy of his service to his country
Throughout his life Duckenfield exemplified the qualities of a true leader : courage, integrity and a profound sense of duty, and his story is a testament to the enduring power of leadership and the lasting impact of dedicated service
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Duckenfield’s legacy is a poignant reminder of the significant role that individual leaders can play in shaping the course of history and his life and career remain a source of inspiration, highlighting the enduring values of leadership and service that transcend time
