Sir John Jarvis - Blue Plaques
Please note: The location displayed on the map is approximate.
Information about the plaque
A commemorative Blue Plaque has been unveiled in Jarrow in tribute to industrialist and philanthropist Sir John Jarvis for his support for the town during the Great Depression.
Sir John Jarvis was a wealthy businessman who became High Sheriff of Surrey in 1934, and MP for Guildford a year later.
He also founded the Surrey Fund, which was specifically set up to support the people of Jarrow during the 1930s.
The initial £40,000 he secured helped to support employment in the area and create the town's Monkton Stadium (formerly known as the Jarvis Stadium) and Monkton Dene Park, still known by many as Jarvis Park.
Sir John also funded youth leagues in sport as well as founded and became the first President of Jarrow and Hebburn Athletic Club.
The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor John McCabe officially unveiled the Blue Plaque on near Monkton Dene Park on Friday the 6th of October 2023, with members of the Jarvis family in attendance.
The Blue Plaque has been funded by the Jarvis family and Jarrow and Hebburn Athletic Club, following a successful nomination by Councillor Paul Milburn of Primrose ward, supported by local historian Tom Tweddell.