Captain Cook Statue

This statue commemorates Captain James Cook R.N (1728 - 1779), and is the first statue of Cook erected in New South Wales. It represents the Colonial wish to commemorate Cook in the 1870s.

It was commissioned and erected by Captain Thomas Watson in the grounds of his residence, 'Cooks Lodge', on the 28th October 1874, the anniversary of Cook's birthday. Carved from Pyrmont Sandstone by sculptor Water McGill for 700 pounds, It stands about 12ft tall, on a base of about the same height. It is situated facing Botany Bay, the location where Cook landed in 1770. The unveiling was carried out by Commodore James Goodenough at a ceremony set for 5pm, The bells of St Judes Anglican Church had pealed continuously from midday and flags decked Alison Road and Avoca Street.