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Alfred the Great Statue, Pewsey
This statue, made of Portland stone, was built in 1913 to commemorate the coronation of Alfred’s ancestor eventual successor, George V (reign 1910-1936), in June 1911.
Located in the heart of the small Wiltshire village of Pewsey, it depicts Alfred gazing into the distance, bearded and crowned, with long hair, holding a lowered shield and sword. According to local tradition, Alfred visited the village following a triumph over Viking invaders, proclaiming an annual feast day – Holy Cross Day – on 14th September.
Pewey is mentioned in Alfred’s will, which divides his estates amongst his family, including his sons, daughters, wife, nephews and “my kinsman Osferth” – perhaps an illegitimate son. The village was left to his son and heir, Edward the Elder (reign 899-924), and later gifted to the church by Edward's son, King Edmund (reign 939-946).