Francis Smith blue plaque
Overview
Francis Smith blue plaque is recorded as Blue plaque in City Of Leicester. The saved source gives an exact reason to look beyond the map label: This blue commemorative plaque records: Top Hat Terrace built by Francis 'Tanky' Smith d.
Why it was made
The saved source records: Top Hat Terrace built by Francis 'Tanky' Smith d. 1888 Leicester's first private detective Each of the sixteen carved heads on the building represent Tanky Smith in one of his many disguises
People and events
The saved source records: Top Hat Terrace built by Francis 'Tanky' Smith d. 1888 Leicester's first private detective Each of the sixteen carved heads on the building represent Tanky Smith in one of his many disguises
How it worked
The label Blue plaque gives the safest clue to purpose or form. It does not by itself prove the exact building method, daily use, age or sequence of changes at this place.
What remains
The official record fixes the place and calls it Blue plaque. It does not provide a full list of finds or a current condition report, so visible and buried remains are not guessed.
Why it mattered
Francis Smith blue plaque matters because its inscription ties a person, group, event or old local practice to this exact place. The source records: Top Hat Terrace built by Francis 'Tanky' Smith d. 1888 Leicester's first private detective Each of the sixteen carved heads on the building represent Tanky Smith in one of his many disguises The importance lies in what the inscription remembers, not in the plaque as a piece of metal.
History checked 15 August 2026 against the named sources below.
A monument record does not grant access to the land or permission to touch, climb or disturb it. Check current paths, ownership and protection before visiting.