【Strolling through Nishi-ward 28】A story of bronze bust and cat 【Strolling through Nishi-ward 28】A story of bronze bust and cat
Spot information
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| Web site | https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/nishi/shokai/kanko/spot/sozoroaruki/ |
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Description
Strolling through Nishi-ward: A story of bronze bust and cat
A bronze bust built next to Nogeyama distributing reservoir in Nogeyama park is British engineer Henry Spencer Palmer. He visited Japan in 1882 (Meiji 15) and was engaged in the development of very first modern water system in Japan. Since then, he has greatly contributed to the development of Yokohama. When he retired the British army, he was appointed as honorary Major General military engineer.
At one time or another, I saw a tipsy old man trying to stand straight and reading the inscription in a suggestive manner. He suddenly said “Aha! He’s a big guy!” and then clapped his hands and made a profound bow to the statue. It was somewhat funny.
This area is also known as “Kingdom of stray cats”. There was a cat which developed a special skill of going up and down with his body horizontally and putting his four legs on the trash can. Every time I saw him, I was very surprised. But I haven’t seen him lately. I hope he’s doing great.
Writing and picture by Tai Hasewaga (Nishi ward Cultural Association/Chairman of Kiko Society)
※This is a sketch and writing published in Yokohama Public Relation Nishi ward edition between November 1997 and April 2004. Please be noted that there’s a possibility that information in the article may be changed.
(Published February in 2000)