The Shuttleworth Trust has unveiled a replica of the Statue of Fidelity at its historic Swiss Garden in Bedfordshire, marking the second time this year that a long-lost sculpture has been restored to the 19th-century landscape. The original statue, which symbolizes loyalty and faithfulness, disappeared from the garden during the 1970s when the property fell into severe neglect. The new reproduction was made possible through the fundraising efforts of the Friends of the Swiss Garden, a volunteer organization dedicated to preserving this important cultural heritage site. The unveiling represents a significant milestone in the ongoing restoration of one of Britain's best-preserved Regency gardens.
The Statue of Fidelity's disappearance remains shrouded in mystery, with limited documentation available about its original installation or exact fate. Shuttleworth Trust officials believe the artwork may have been damaged beyond repair during the garden's period of decline or possibly stolen during that chaotic time. The 1970s represented a particularly difficult chapter for the Swiss Garden, which had been created in the 1820s by Robert Henley, Lord of Ongley. After decades of private ownership, Bedfordshire County Council leased the property in 1976, finding it in a state of advanced deterioration that required extensive renovation before it could reopen to the public in 1981.
This latest restoration follows the successful reinstatement of the Diana of Gabii statue in January 2025, which was also missing for approximately five decades. That sculpture, a reproduction of a Roman marble copy of a Greek original from the 4th Century BC, was crafted from white marble and architectural resin. The Diana statue's disappearance was similarly attributed to the garden's neglected period, though its removal might have been intentional due to damage. These twin restorations demonstrate the Shuttleworth Trust's commitment to returning the garden to its original splendor as envisioned by its 19th-century creators.
The Swiss Garden is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of a Regency garden in the United Kingdom, featuring thirteen listed structures and a design that reflects the romantic aesthetic of the early 1800s. The garden was later enhanced by the Shuttleworth family, who added their own touches while maintaining the original character of the landscape. A major restoration project funded by the Heritage Lottery in 2012 allowed for further improvements and structural repairs. The Friends of the Swiss Garden was established in 1992 to support these ongoing conservation efforts through fundraising and volunteer work, playing a crucial role in maintaining the garden for future generations.
The decision to begin reinstating missing statues was made following the garden's bicentennial celebration in 2024, which highlighted the historical significance of the site and the gaps in its original design. The Shuttleworth Trust has appealed to the public for any information about the original Fidelity statue, hoping that former visitors or local residents might possess photographs, documents, or memories that could shed light on its history. The trust expressed particular interest in learning how long the original statue graced the garden and the circumstances surrounding its loss, as such information would help inform future restoration decisions.
The restored Swiss Garden now welcomes visitors who can experience the landscape much as it appeared nearly two centuries ago, complete with its newly returned sculptures. The garden's management continues to research its history and plan for additional improvements that honor its heritage while ensuring its long-term preservation. Those with information about the original statues are encouraged to contact the Shuttleworth Trust directly. Meanwhile, the public can support these restoration efforts by visiting the garden, joining the Friends organization, or participating in upcoming fundraising events designed to protect this unique piece of England's horticultural and artistic legacy.
