Radical Reformer
Joseph Chamberlain M.P. non conformist and radical, is arguably the most famous person buried in Key Hill.He was responsible for huge changes including vast slum clearance schemes in Birmingham, which in a few short years became known as the best run city in the world.
As a keen advocate of municipalisation, he purchased the water companies and the gas companies for Birmingham making great improvements to the availability and quality of both utilities and ultimately reaping great profits for the city.
He expressed a wish for a simple burial despite the wishes of parliament for a state funeral. His name is merely added to the bottom of the tombstone on the family grave.
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| Joseph Chamberlain |
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| The arrival of the Hearse at the main gate for Chamberlain's Funeral |
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| The Burial |
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| Last Moments |
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| Grave diggers finish the burial |
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| The gravestone |
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| The Chamberlain Memorial in Victoria Square |
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| Birmingham University Clocktower 'Old Joe' |