Robert Bakewell grey plaque

This grey commemorative plaque records: In the old smithy under this building Robert Bakewell the celebrated iron smith, set up his forge in the year 1707. Here he wrought the garden arbour for Melbourne Hall and other examples of his art to be seen throughout England. This plaque was unveiled on June 25th 1982 by the Marquess of Lothian to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Bakewells birth

Robert Bakewell was a pioneering animal breeder and farmer who significantly advanced selective breeding techniques in the 18th century, contributing crucially to the agricultural revolution.