There are memorials to dogs all over the world – from Greyfriars Bobby in Edinburgh to Hachiko in Tokyo – and dogs are frequently remembered for their commitment and friendship. Cambridge likewise has its own memorial to a precious family pet, who was called Tony which was spent for by a royal.
Tony’s Trough is a granite shrine on Mitcham’s Corner, with an engraving to Tony. It’s formed like a trough to hold water for dogs to consume from.
The shrine was set up by Cambridge City Council in 1934. It happened after a previous trainee at Cambridge University, Prince Chula of Siam (now Thailand), recommended that it be set up to honor his precious family pet.
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The engraving checks out: “1934. In memory of Tony, a dog who provided him relationship and joy throughout his Cambridge years. This trough is set up by His Royal Highness Prince Chula of Siam.”
The prince studied history at Trinity College, and Tony was his continuous buddy. Tony passed away after the prince left the city, however Prince Chula offered funds and guidelines to the council for the memorial to be set up.
A report from the Town Planning Committee of 13 June 1933 states: “The Committee even more thought about a deal received from HRH Prince Chula of Siam of a water trough for animals to be positioned near Trinity Backs or Milton Road and, in connection therewith, the Town Clerk sent a letter from the regional inspector of the RSPCA intimating that his association completely supported the erection of such a trough.
“Resolved that the deal of HRH Prince Chula of Siam of a water trough for dogs be accepted with the very best thanks of the council; that it be recommended that the trough must be a little one for dogs just and even more that the water trough be positioned at the junction of Milton Road and Chesterton Road, near the Police Box.”
