The Black Boy Fountain

A 19th-Century Tribute in Bronze

The Black Boy Fountain is a graceful cast-iron monument from the mid-1800s, manufactured by the Neilson Foundry in Glasgow. Its most distinctive feature is the life-sized bronze sculpture of a young boy, painted black, poised with a floral trumpet. This striking figure gives the fountain its name and has become a familiar sight in Stirling’s Allan Park area. The fountain’s intricate ironwork, with ornamental columns and decorative panels, reflects the craftsmanship of the Victorian era and the importance placed on public memorials during that time.

Commemorating the Black Plague

The fountain was originally erected as a memorial to those from Stirling who died during outbreaks of the Black Plague. This solemn purpose adds a layer of historical depth to what might otherwise be seen as a purely decorative feature. Standing in Mellville Terrace, it serves as a quiet reminder of past epidemics and the resilience of the town’s population. The choice of a young boy as the central figure may symbolise innocence and hope, offering a gentle counterpoint to the grim history of the site.

On the Site of Gallous Mailing

The fountain occupies the location of what was once known as the Gallous Mailing, a place outside the old town walls used for public executions and burials. In the 17th century, this area was a grim but necessary part of Stirling’s civic life, where justice was carried out and the dead laid to rest. Today, the peaceful park setting contrasts sharply with that past, yet the fountain’s presence keeps the memory of this historic site alive in a dignified and artistic way.

A Quiet Corner of Stirling

Situated in a residential area near Stirling’s city centre, the Black Boy Fountain is easily accessible and often discovered by visitors exploring the town on foot. It stands in a small green space, surrounded by trees and nearby homes, creating a calm and reflective atmosphere. While not as grand as Stirling Castle or as bustling as the Old Town, the fountain offers a more intimate encounter with the town’s layered history, appealing to those who enjoy quieter, lesser-known landmarks.

Restoration and Local Identity

The fountain underwent restoration in 1997, ensuring that its delicate ironwork and the central bronze figure would be preserved for future generations. This care reflects the local community’s attachment to the monument as part of Stirling’s heritage. Over time, the Black Boy has become a recognised symbol of the area, blending art, memory, and civic pride in a single, enduring structure.