Commemorative plaque 56082

This blue commemorative plaque records: From 1794 until 1910 barges could be seen here on the Basingstoke Canal, heading to and from the wharf which now lies under Festival Palace. They carried timber, flour and chalk to London, returning with coal, fertiliser and building materials. During the Napoleonic Wars, when coins were in short supply, payment tokens were issued to the canal builders for use in local shops or taverns. The token illustrated here was issued by the main contractor, John Pinkerton, to his workmen. A footpath follows the line of the canal from Eastrop Park to Basing House. Recorded plaque organisation: Basingstoke Heritage Society.

The plaque commemorates the Basingstoke Canal's historical role in transporting goods like timber and coal between 1794 and 1910, highlighting its economic significance during the Napoleonic Wars when it also facilitated local currency through payment tokens issued to workers.