Joseph Sturge
Joseph Sturge was one of Birmingham’s most influential social reformers, a Quaker, abolitionist and passionate advocate for peace.
His memorial statue, crafted by sculptor John Thomas, was unveiled in 1862 and today stands prominently on the north side of Harborne Road at the Five Ways junction.
A champion for human rights and social reform
Born in 1793, Sturge dedicated his life to major social causes of his time, including the abolition of slavery and the advancement of peace movements. His work supporting the oppressed and pushing for political reform made him a key figure in Birmingham’s radical history.
His activism took him far beyond Birmingham, including a journey to St Petersburg to advocate for peace during the Crimean War.
The statue
The Grade II listed statue is made of Portland stone and includes several elements:
- Sturge, wearing a traditional lapel-less Quaker coat, stands with his right hand resting on a Bible, reflecting his Quaker faith
- below him are 2 symbolic figures:
- Peace, holding an olive branch with a lamb at her feet
- Charity, comforting a child – a reference to Sturge’s commitment to abolition and humanitarian work
- the plinth features inscriptions including “Joseph Sturge 1859,” “Peace,” “Charity,” and “Temperance”
- the statue originally included drinking fountains, now no longer operational, with gadrooned basins projecting from the plinth
Conservation and care
Although originally sited slightly differently, the statue was moved about 100 yards to its present location during the early 20th century.
It has undergone several important conservation efforts, including restoration work in 2006–07 led by Birmingham Civic Society, Birmingham City Council and the Sturge family, during which Sturge’s missing left hand, lost in 1875, was replaced.
Most recently, in late 2025, the statue underwent further conservation work carried out by Birmingham Museums Trust, supported through UK Shared Prosperity Funding. This work helped stabilise the stonework, clean its surface and ensure that this important piece of Birmingham’s heritage remains safe and accessible for generations to come.
A lasting legacy
Today, the Joseph Sturge memorial remains a powerful reminder of Birmingham’s proud tradition of activism and its global contribution to human rights and peace.
Standing at the edge of Five Ways, it invites residents and visitors alike to reflect on the city’s history, and on the impact one determined individual can make.
Page last updated: 22 January 2026
